The Season of Thanks Begins

November kicks off the holiday season, and with Thanksgiving many are inspired to examine what they are most thankful for. Not surprisingly, we have much in common regarding giving thanks. We are thankful for our friends, family, significant others, pets, health, freedom, and much more.

Thanksgiving began in America in 1621 when a bountiful harvest was undoubtedly something to be thankful for. As food costs rise, many families are working even harder to put food on the table, yet we do have so much to be thankful for.

Although, it may appear more challenging to obtain the American Dream of homeownership this year, we can be optimistic and thankful that many safeguards and opportunities are in place on the road to achieving this dream.

I am fascinated by how real estate practices differ worldwide and how our system works to protect us as much as possible. In several developed countries, there are few formal rules and a regulated real estate licensing body does not exist. Although title insurance is available, it is costly. Therefore, less than 1% of real estate sales in these countries include this vital protection.

Some countries own all the land and therefore have control. The governmental bodies will lease you the land, and you may build a home, but you never own the land. Other countries require complicated steps for many, including requiring the purchase offer to be notarized and registered with the government before a sale occurs. In addition, numerous governmental fees can be extremely high, narrowing down how many can achieve the dream even more.

Indeed, our system isn't perfect. It has, however, provided an organized, safe, and predictable method for buying and owning real estate. Professional real estate brokers' licensing and continuing education requirements help assure that all parties are treated fairly, and the risk of falling prey to unethical practices is minimalized.

At Gambino, our agents take your dream to heart, and we are continually thankful for the trust you have in us to help you achieve your goal of homeownership. It is in high hopes that when you sit down for your definition of a bountiful feast on the 24th and 25th of November, you are surrounded by loved ones under a roof that you call your own – the American Dream!

Jonathan R. Krause, President Gambino Realtors

815.282.2222 | www.GoGambino.com