I scored a dreamy, rent-stabilized apartment in New York City 5 years ago. Now, I feel trapped with my family in 800 square feet.

Winning the New York City affordable housing lottery was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Five years, a husband, and a kid later, I feel like I have no choice but to stay. Caralynn Matassa In 2021, I won the New York City affordable-housing lottery after applying over 50 times. My rent-stabilized $2,295 one-bedroom apartment was perfect when it was just me and my dog. Almost five years (and one husband and child) later, it feels cramped, but I still can't give it up. On an o...