The media and the investment gurus have missed the point of why buying real estate makes sense. Sure stocks and bonds are important in retirement planning and on the average over the years they almost always post gains. Real estate too has almost always posted gains when held in a long term strategy, but that’s not the only reason to buy a home. First and foremost we need a roof over our head, second they don’t manufacture land anymore so ownership is unique and always comes with a “trade in or trade up value” and third the replacement value is often incalculable. Which is to say the memories and family connection associated with a primary or second home property can be so profound and important in our lives there is no way to estimate the dollar value of the shared experiences we get from this (ownership) investment.

So don’t talk about return on investment when it comes to buying property for our family’s’ enjoyment lets talk about the intangibles like; Family ski trips, floating down the river together on a summer afternoon, mixed doubles with your 10 year old playing the net, your son’s first 200 yard drive on a guys golf outing, your daughters trout caught with no bait because she didn’t want to touch the worm, or a hike in the White Mountains just because there is a great view when we get to the end of the path.

Sure its nice to make a profit when its time to resell, but that can’t be the only reason to buy in the first place, remember life is short so play hard. Vacations homes return bigger dividends than can be calculated by your accountant; it’s a great time to buy property.