SUBSCRIBE
Enter your Name and Email address to get
the newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Please include name of person that directed you to my online newsletter so I can thank them personally.
Tom Meaglia, ChFC®, AEP®,
CLU®, CRPC®, MSFS
Chartered Financial Consultant
Investment Advisor Representative
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor
CA Insurance Lic. #0567507
Meaglia Financial Consulting
2105 Foothill Blvd., #B140, La Verne, CA 91750
Toll Free: 800-386-3700
Bus: 909-593-6105
Cell: 818-681-8600
Fax: 909-593-6120
Email: tom@meagliafinancialconsulting.com
Website: www.meagliafinancialconsulting.com
January/February 2026
Rethinking the American Dream
With rising market volatility, soaring home prices, and high interest rates, it's no surprise that increasing numbers of people in your position are exploring varied investment opportunities— and finding plenty of reasons to think beyond traditional home ownership.
The Cost of Home Ownership
Owning a home has long been touted as a wise investment. But today's reality is pushing many to reconsider. For those with significant capital, the stock market and other investment vehicles can offer better returns than holding onto a pricey piece of property. Especially in times of market uncertainty, diversifying your investments* can feel more secure than committing to a fixed asset, such as a home.According to Redfin Estimates, the price of high-end homes (those estimated to be in the top 5% of their respective metro area based on market value) is increasing twice as fast (nearly 9% a year) as non-luxury homes, with high-end homes averaging in the $1.2 million range. While a 9% "return" may look attractive, you also must look at the expense of rising mortgage costs, if you're financing the purchase, and the costs of selling to realize the gain.
You may also be on the hook for local real estate taxes. Generally, the more expensive the property, the higher the tax. There's also the expense of insuring the property in addition to your personal belongings. And don't forget upkeep and maintenance costs. What's often touted as a "dream home" can quickly turn into a financial burden.
Weigh Experiences Versus Ownership
This may be especially important for younger investors. Having a home ties you down—both physically and financially. With global travel becoming easier and lifestyles evolving, you may find yourself prioritizing experiences over ownership. Short-term rentals, luxury condos, or even vacation homes in prime locations offer the freedom to switch up your surroundings without the long-term commitment of ownership.Convenience can also play a role here. Property management, upkeep, and the stress of unforeseen repairs can be significant hassles. If you place a high value on your time, outsourcing these responsibilities becomes a no-brainer. Renting or leasing provides a level of convenience that home ownership can't compete with.
Lifestyle Perks
Let's not forget about lifestyle perks. Renting often opens doors to upscale amenities, including concierge services, world-class pools, and gyms. Instead of being tied to one address, you may choose to live in vibrant city centers, stunning coastal towns, or exclusive gated communities—whatever suits your current lifestyle. It's about enjoying life to the fullest.For younger generations in particular, priorities are shifting. Many are investing in travel, wellness, and experiences rather than locking themselves into long-term housing commitments. With a growing focus on portfolio diversification, there's an undeniable allure in exploring opportunities that keep pace with evolving interests, rather than tying dollars up in real estate.
Is it time to reevaluate your approach to real estate with your trusted advisor and consider what living well may mean to you in today's world?
CONTACT US
Enter your Name, Email Address and a short message. We'll respond to you as soon as possible.
Thomas Meaglia is an Investment Adviser Representative of Coppell Advisory Solutions LLC, dba, Fusion Capital Management, a registered investment adviser that only conducts business in jurisdictions where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Registration as an investment adviser is not an endorsement of the firm by securities regulators and does not mean the adviser has achieved a specific level of skill or ability. The firm is not engaged in the practice of law or accounting.
Insurance and annuity products are not sold through Fusion Capital Management. Fusion does not endorse any annuity or insurance product, nor does it guarantee any insurance or annuity performance. Annuity and life insurance guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. If you withdraw money from or surrender your contract within a certain time after investing, the insurance company may assess a surrender charge. Withdrawals may be subject to tax penalties and income taxes. Persons selling annuities and other insurance products receive compensation for these transactions. These commissions are separate and distinct from Fusion's investment advisory fees.
Meaglia Financial Consulting and LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC are unrelated companies. This publication was prepared for the publication’s provider by LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC, an unrelated third party. Articles are not written or produced by the named representative.
The information and opinions contained in this web site are obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The publishers assume no responsibility for errors and omissions or for any damages resulting from the use of the published information. This web site is published with the understanding that it does not render legal, accounting, financial, or other professional advice. Whole or partial reproduction of this web site is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.