Housing co-ops come to mind as an alternative. You buy into the co-op similar to a down payment but usually much lower amount ($10 000 vs $50 000- $250 000 here) and are returned that buy in if you ever leave. Rent goes into a shared equity fund used to pay off mortgages (say for the land and buildings if new build) or for major renovations if an established co-op. Rents are far lower than market value (1/3 to 1/4 the market rate locally) so it’s affordable for everyone.

Around here everyone has to do a hour or so of volunteer work in the co-op, but it all goes to improving everyone’s living.

Housing shouldn’t be an investment, it should be a basic right for every person.