Some years ago, when the time came for a grandparent to "downsize" to a smaller home and retire from the rat race-----that was a concept that few today can remember...with the stress and all, the memory of it has faded. In fact, the fantasy today is to die on the job. Anyway....
As we were discussing the possible house options, over a few strong black, extra sugar, in dark blue Minnesota Viking mugs, there was a very attractive, but small home near White Bear Lake...... The only problem was that it was too small for extra kids in case they came home. That was one continuing theme. "I must have a spare bedroom, just in case".....she mumbled.
Finally, we had to tell the truth.
"Mom, the kids have been gone for five years or so, and they have their own homes. They are not coming home."
There it was. A few tears. A few hugs and then the decision. The small home would do just fine.
I remember what it felt like to have to go over the reality in the face of the dream.
I get the same feeling when I hear folks talk about young college grads on entry level jobs, with high college debt---it had to be done for the investment...of course it was worth it....ya just borrow the "gap". etc, etc....---buying homes locally and beginning ....maybe just like the WWII generation did after the "Big One."
However....
No matter how I do the numbers. If regular lending standards are enforced. Unless something pretty dramatic happens to increase wage levels, and job opportunity....and unless something pretty dramatic happens to the price of homes to make them more affordable.....I come upon an unfortunate matter....
They aren't coming home.
They are not buying homes.
They are not getting married.
They are not having kids.
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