Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and unforgettable conversations. Whether it’s Aunt Lisa debating the housing market or your cousin sharing renter woes, there’s no better time to stir up some spirited (but friendly) dialogue. This year, why not bring a real estate twist to the table? Here are a few visual conversation starters paired with some lighthearted, turkey-day humor that will get everyone talking—even Uncle Joe, who only ever talks about football.
1. The Homeowner vs. Renter Debate
Talking Point: Did you know that a home purchased in 2019 has generated about $158,000 in wealth for the owner? Meanwhile, renters over the same period have cumulatively spent $89,000 on rent.
Thanksgiving Twist:
Homeowners have been carving up the wealth pie while renters are, unfortunately, left to take the scraps. But hey, there’s always room at the table to talk about what comes next. So, who’s team homeowner and who’s team renter?
What to Ask the Table:
If you bought a home before 2019, do you feel like the market rewarded you?
If you’re renting, would you take a plunge into homeownership given today’s rates?
2. Good News: Most Homes Are Staying Afloat
Talking Point: Only 1.7% of U.S. homes are underwater (meaning the homeowner owes more on their mortgage than the home’s value). That’s a sign of a market holding steady despite challenges like rising interest rates.
Thanksgiving Twist:
While your gravy boat might be underwater tonight, thankfully, most homes in America aren’t! A toast to equity—both financial and social—this holiday season.
What to Ask the Table:
How do you think today’s equity stability compares to 2008’s housing crisis?
With rates high, do you think people will wait to buy, or are they diving in to avoid rising rents?
3. Predicting the Market Like Aunt Lisa
Talking Point: This heatmap shows monthly U.S. home price changes since 1990. The takeaway? In 2023, the first two quarters showed strong positive MoM gains, but recent months into 2024 indicate decelerating appreciation. It’s proof that the housing market never fails to surprise us.
Thanksgiving Twist:
Remember when Aunt Lisa called the 2008 housing crash at Thanksgiving? Show her this heatmap and ask: Does she see red flags for 2024, or will the market stay as warm as the dinner rolls?
What to Ask the Table:
Based on this chart, where do you think prices are headed next year?”
What would you tell someone thinking about buying or selling in 2024?”
Leave the Table Thinking
This Thanksgiving, bring more to the table than just pumpkin pie. Share some facts, spark some debate, and sprinkle in a bit of humor. Whether it’s celebrating equity gains or guessing market trends, real estate can add a whole new flavor to your holiday discussions.
Before dessert, pose this question to your guests: If you could give one piece of real estate advice to your younger self, what would it be? The answers might surprise you and even inspire some post-dinner real estate goals.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy the time with your friends and family!
