Love is in the air, everywhere! Happy Valentine’s Year!

As we all start to get into a rhythm with this new year, patterns start to emerge on every level. The holidays are long past, the year is in full swing, and the next big “holidays” are Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, and the Superbowl—so we are back to reality.
The election is over, and no one really knows the ramifications of the new regime on our economy (or sanity). But, by and large, that won’t affect us in our here-and-now everyday lives.

 

It is clear that interest rates will not move drastically, so new construction housing starts will be low. Inventory will likely improve, although not as much as it could if rates were. better. Prices will still be high, but not records like when rates were at 3-4%.

 

This should be an article about real estate, but honestly, after everything we have just been through and how fast everything around us is moving, taking the time to slow down and focus on what is really important seems like a good reminder.
At the end of the day, it is not about money, politics, greed, or fear. It is really about love and what and who matters most to us.

 

Love for your family, neighbors, community, and country. This is what forms the bedrock of all of our lives. Money is just a tool. Getting mired in greed, politics, and inconsequential things just wastes your life energy when there is so much more. We are all part of a very complex set of systems- our family, work, community, and country. So whatever you hold dear should be the starting point for all decisions. Not the external vagaries of politics. I have had several friends leave the country permanently after the election. It saddens me- why not stay here and improve what we have for everyone?

 

Just like they tell you to save yourself first in a dangerous situation, then save others, I ask you: What would save you? What matters to you? How can you make it better?

 

If it is your home, what would make it the best place possible for you to live in? What winter maintenance does it need- if your house is not solid as far as roof or drainage goes, then what does that do to the quality of your life? Let alone if you are thinking of selling it. Having a clean, well-maintained home is a great feeling. When a house is solid, you can feel it from the moment you walk in the door. Strive to have that super solid, safe place to call home, and everything in your life will be a little better. Feel what it feels like to really love where you live.

 

If no amount of maintenance will make where you live feel like the most optimum place you can be right now, then move. Seriously. Life is short; there are bargains because the spring selling season has not started yet. Take advantage of the winter to find a place you love, and I can guarantee that someone else will love your house the way you once did. If you are thinking of selling your home, think about ways to increase community awareness of your home. Tell your sphere about it. Conceivably, someone who lives near you works with you or even is your friend on Facebook or Instagram knows someone who might want your house. Put some positive energy into the process, and you will be surprised at the results. Your realtor will market properly, but a little extra energy from you on this level can make a world of difference.

 

For your neighbors, think of one thing you could do every year that brings you all together- not just scrolling through Next Door, but something that can make all of your lives better- like organizing a National Night out Safety Walk or a barbeque where the proceeds go to beautify something, or just a block party to meet one another-

 

For the community, find a charity that interests you and figure out what they need. Then, organize a drive to help them at your school, work, or neighborhood. Take the time to collect a little trash every day. Get active in local concerns—a little energy goes a long way to fixing problems in every community.

 

For our country, just remember that we live in an amazing country. This is still the land of opportunity, a country of brave immigrants who have made us, and continue to make us, as great as we are. This is still a beautiful place worthy of your love that can be healed. And just like you have to take care of your own personal home, the whole country is your home. Love of country is part of a solid foundation for us all. If you are down about the election and think your vote doesn’t count, think again. Make sure you stay aware and stay activist for things that matter to you. In the end, taking that life energy and positively pursuing a good life for everyone will reap huge rewards. Love to you all!