Still The One

Remember the song, "Still The One" by Orleans? 

The last stanza says,

"You are still the one that makes me shout
 Still the one that I dream about
 We're still having fun, and you're still the one... "

This makes me think real estate.  Why?  Because over the long-term real estate has always appreciated in value.  It has always been one of the most solid investments in America since people always have and always will need a place to live.  According to the National Association of Realtors' chief economist, Lawrence Yun, "If a buyer were to put down $10,000 for a down payment on a typically priced home in the United States at a typical appreciation rate of 5%...(he/she) would see a return of $100,300 after 10 years.  The same $10,000 invested in the stock market appreciating 10% annually would result in $23,600.  Historically, home ownership pays off well for people who keep their homes at least 7-10 years.  If you are looking for a place to park your money or if you are just looking for a place to live why not consider real estate?  The inventory is great, the prices are low and so are mortgage rates to qualified buyers.  If you are not a qualified buyer you should not even consider buying a home.  If you are not sure whether you are a qualified buyer or not please speak with a mortgage professional before you decide to go house hunting.  There are some great deals out there right now.  I've heard people says, "I'm waiting for the market to reach the bottom."  My response is, "How do you know the bottom has been reached until things start going up?"  Once inventory is depleted, prices are up and mortgage rates rise you will know that there was a bottom, but then it will be too late.  The savvy buyers are buying right now because they know that real estate is Still The One.