Why Real Estate Remains the Best Long-Term Investment—12 Years Running

Why Real Estate Remains the Best Long-Term Investment—12 Years Running

Let’s be honest—housing headlines can be loud, conflicting, and downright exhausting.

Will prices drop? Are rates going up again? Is the market crashing?

We get it. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the truth: when you zoom out and look at the big picture, real estate continues to prove itself as the most consistent and powerful long-term investment available.

Real Estate > Stocks, Gold, and Bonds (Again)

According to the latest annual Gallup poll, Americans have voted real estate as the #1 long-term investment for the 12th year in a row—beating out stocks, gold, and bonds.

And this isn’t just a one-time fluke. Even after a rocky season for the stock market, real estate held its ground. Why? Because it builds wealth in a way that’s more stable and predictable.

Gallup noted:

“Amid volatility in the stock and bond markets, Americans’ preference for stocks has declined. Gold has gained in appeal, while real estate remains the top choice for the 12th consecutive year.”

That’s not just a stat. That’s confidence backed by real-life experience.

Here’s Why Real Estate Still Wins

  • It’s a tangible asset – You can live in it, rent it, or sell it.
  • It grows over time – Home values may rise slowly some years, but historically, they trend up.
  • It’s steady – Unlike markets that fluctuate daily, housing typically appreciates in a more reliable way.

And while it’s true that home values may rise more moderately in today’s market—or even plateau temporarily in some areas—that’s part of the normal cycle. It doesn’t erase the fact that homeownership remains one of the most effective ways to build real wealth over time.

As First American’s Senior Economist, Sam Williamson, puts it:

“A home is more than just a place to live—it’s often a family’s most valuable financial asset and a cornerstone to building long-term wealth.”

What This Means for You

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to buy—this is your reminder that real estate is a long game, not a short-term gamble. You don’t need to perfectly time the market to win in it. You just need the right strategy and expert guidance to get in.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, upsizing, downsizing, or exploring investment properties in the Chicago suburbs, our team is here to walk you through it all.

Let’s Build Your Long-Term Wealth Together

  • Buying your first home?
  • Want to invest in a local rental?
  • Have questions about what’s possible in today’s market?

We’re ready when you are. Let’s connect, talk strategy, and get you one step closer to building a future through real estate.

Work With Us

Either as your buying agent or your listing agent, our team will be a fierce advocate and will negotiate the best deal terms possible. Our no-nonsense approach is respected and appreciated among clients, peers and our community.

Follow Us on Instagram