Great question, and one we should definitely not lose perspective of in these difficult times. People buy homes because a home is the place in which you call your own, create memories, raise a family, become part of a community, invest in your future. There is a sense of pride in one's home that is evident in the many ways we care for our homes. Home is a place that is all our own. No one else can call it theirs, and no matter the size or location it will always be "home." So many people have lost their homes in these hard economic times, and that loss is so difficult not because it is a material one, but because it is the loss of memories, of the sense of belonging, community and perhaps the sense of pride we all feel in our homes, be they apartments or mansions. As Dorothy says, "there is no place like home." Despite the twists and turns in the economy this mantra will remain true, and buyers will continue to purchase a little slice of the American dream.

What a great idea! This story book could take many different forms, from handwritten personal memories, photo albums, favorite homemade recipes (with some to sample!), or whatever strikes the homeowner's fancy.