I know being a life-long real estate broker, I have a bias towards property as an asset. However, follow this train of thought if you would. The value of an ounce of gold is around $900.00, and I understand it is a commodity recognized internationally for trade. What makes gold valuable is its relative scarcity and peoples’ desire to possess it (lets’ say ownership). Aside from hiding it under your bed, keeping it in a vault or making jewelry from it how else can you derive pleasure from owning it?

Now let’s look at property, not so easy to trade or cash in granted, but a lot more ways to enjoy it. It provides many of our basic needs, shelter, safety, food, water and even a place to fall in love. This thought came to me the other day when I saw the price of gold: we have mapped out the surface of the earth and know how much of the planet is dry, we also know how much is inhabitable (and once we subtract government parcels) we know what is left for private ownership. We don’t know with any certainty if we have discovered all the gold buried on this planet or if some other planet isn’t made of gold. So unless you can grow an ear of corn on a brick of gold I think real estate has a greater value. What do you think? I’d love to hear your comment.

Steve Loynd
Alpine Lakes Realty
Lincoln NH
Steve@alpinelakes.com