As a first time home owner and a market like Duncan would only buy once you know you will be settling there and you have longterm jobs there. Yes we are taking lower cost housing but if it uses up all your savings it still puts you in a very difficult spot if you want to move or outgrow your space. There are still fees that go along with purchasing a home and the maintenance a home. There are condos fees and the reserve fund of a condo could be underfunded which is very common. Breaking even if you need to sell in 5-10 years can still take a while. We aren't talking about a large city that attracts lots of jobs and people. What is the resale market for a condo? What about a mobile home? Assume that homes are the most popular and desired type of home in the area. These are very specific types of housing which may not be as desirable on the resale market in the area.
Unfortunately I think you are underestimating the financial pain the the world is going to feel for many years.