Aug. 6, 2018

This paid piece is sponsored by The Tony Ratchford Group.

By Tony Ratchford

The definition of the American Dream, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is “a happy way of living that is thought of by many Americans as something that can be achieved by anyone in the U.S. especially by working hard and becoming successful.”

Wikipedia defines the Dream as a “national ethos of the United States, the set of ideals — democracy, rights, liberty, opportunity and equality — in which freedom includes the opportunity for prosperity and success, as well as an upward social mobility for the family and children, achieved through hard work in a society with few barriers.”

In the definition of the American Dream by James Truslow Adams in 1931, “life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement” regardless of social class or circumstances of birth.

The American Dream is rooted in the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims that “all men are created equal” with the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

Herbert Hoover proclaimed ‘a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage’ if elected president. As a real estate agent, I like Hoover’s implication we hopefully have a garage, which is attached to a house.

The Housing Dream still lives for 62 percent of us in the USA, while 38 percent choose to live in rental properties. Since the crash of 2007, real estate ownership for many was passe, and renting was the new way to go; although, over the past few years, people have started to have more belief in ownership again.

The reason is simply because we have a greater desire for a broad sense of the American Dream. The economy is stronger, wages are up, household incomes are up, wealth-building is on the rise, and many people are experiencing a better life.

There is something special about owning a home. It can be about pride, comfort, finances, memories, freedom and a whole assortment of value-driven feelings.

Today, it’s nearly as easy as ever to get a mortgage. And, with low mortgage rates, one can experience great buying power.

It’s the dream many of us grew up with and continue to hold deeply in our hearts and souls that helps keep us focused and on the right path with a solid trajectory toward our goals and destination.

The Tony Ratchford Group would love to be part of your dream, and that means helping you live in the right house. Our Dream Home Process is designed to maximize your dollars, save you valuable time and give you peace of mind knowing you are on the right path at the right time.

We invite you to call or text 605-759-4118.