Your Opportunity to Achieve the American Dream Keeps Getting Better!
Forbes.com recently released the latest results of their 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 100.0 in January as a baseline for comparison and it rose the fourth straight month in a row to 101.8.
Alaska, coming in at 89.4, represented the lowest score on the index due in part to the recent collapse in oil prices. In contrast, Wyoming came in with the highest score at 115.1. 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:
“The American Dream Index rose for the fourth straight month to 101.8 propelled by gains in goods-producing jobs and building permits, as well as declines in unemployment claims and mass layoffs.
"Goods-producing jobs (manufacturing, mining, construction and agriculture) were up for the ninth straight month in May…Building permits rose for the fourth straight month compared to the prior year.”
Bottom Line
The American Dream, for many, includes being able to own a home of one’s own. With the economy improving in many areas of the country, that dream can finally become a reality.
Why Staging Your House Could Pay Off This Spring
Staging doesn’t always have to mean hiring a full crew or filling your house with rented furniture. There are a few different paths you can take.
4 Ways To Give Your Offer an Edge This Spring
Here’s what you should know if you’re looking to buy a home during this busy spring season.
Rent or Buy? The Real Tradeoff Most People Don’t Talk About
Whether you’re looking to buy now or planning for the future, the first step is the same. Have a quick conversation with a local real estate agent about your goals, timeline, and budget.
The Best Week To List Your House Is Just Around the Corner
Based on analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.
Affordability Has Improved in All 50 States
When buyers have more choices, it creates a healthier balance in the market and that can help bring affordability back within reach.
The Remodel You’ve Been Dreaming About May Be Closer Than You Think
Whether the project you’ve been thinking about is on this list or not, chat with an agent to make sure it’s worth the time, money, and effort before calling in any contractors.