Measuring Your Ability to Achieve the American Dream
Forbes.com recently released the results of their new American Dream Index, in which they measure “the prosperity of the middle class, and…examine which states best support the American Dream.”
The monthly index measures several different economic factors, including goods-producing employment, personal and commercial bankruptcies, building permits, startup activity, unemployment insurance claims, labor force participation, and layoffs.
The national index score was rounded out to 100 in January and saw a modest jump to 100.5 in February.
Alaska represented the lowest score on the index at 80.7, due mostly to the recent collapse in oil prices. Nevada came in with the highest score at 108.8, boosted by big gains in goods-producing jobs and new construction activity. The full results can be seen in the map below.
Forbes Senior Editor Kurt Badenhausen explained why many states saw a boost in the index last month:
“[B]usinesses are hiring in part in anticipation of tax cuts and less regulation… Many areas of the country have experienced strong upticks in employment and construction, as well as declines in unemployment claims since the start of the year.”
Bottom Line
The American Dream, for many, includes being able to own a home of his or her own. With the economy improving in many areas of the country, that dream can finally become a reality.
Thinking of Selling? You Want an Agent with These Skills
A great agent will be very good at explaining what’s happening in the housing market in a way that’s easy to understand.
Home Prices Are Climbing in These Top Cities
Persistent demand coupled with limited housing supply are key drivers pushing home values upward.
How Buying or Selling a Home Benefits Your Community
It makes sense that housing creates a lot of jobs because so many different kinds of work are involved in the industry.
Tips for Younger Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality
An agent will help you prioritize your list of home features and find houses that can deliver on the top ones.
What Is Going on with Mortgage Rates?
Based on current market data, experts think inflation will be more under control and we still may see the Fed lower the Federal Funds Rate this year.
What More Listings Mean When You Sell Your House
if you’re considering whether or not to list your house, today’s limited supply is one of the biggest advantages you have right now.
Now’s a Great Time To Sell Your House
Late spring and early summer are generally considered the best times to sell a house as these are the seasons most people move and buyer demand grows.
Is a Multi-Generational Home Right for You?
Looking for the perfect multi-generational home is a bit trickier than finding a regular house. A local real estate agent can help you out.
What You Really Need To Know About Home Prices
If you’re worried about if home prices will be coming down, here’s what you need to know.
Is It Getting More Affordable To Buy a Home?
Mortgage rates are expected to come down by the end of the year, making homebuying a little more affordable.