In 1913 the New York World (a news paper) started running a comic strip call “Keeping up with the Joneses”. In the strip the “Joneses” are often spoken of but never seen. Who are the “Joneses”, and what do they really stand for today?
The idea of “keeping up with the Joneses” is simply an excuse for individuals and family to spend money in the hope that their neighbors or friends will think of them as equals. But who are the Joneses? I argue, we are all the Joneses. We are all responsible for creating this image of what we think we want. For example, I want to own a private plane, but I don’t know anyone who has one. Do you?
In the last ten years, houses have become the thing to have. Newer, bigger, better houses were the hot ticket. Everyone wanted a new home with granite counters, vaulted ceilings, and a double-headed shower in the master bath. (sounds nice right?) Tubs with showers are not good enough anymore, we must have shower stalls separated from our jetted tubs. After all, the Joneses do.
The Joneses have helped us rewrite the idea of wealth. No longer is wealth measured by how much money you have, but by how much money you can spend. Fake it till you make it. Right, Mr. Jones? Maybe someday you will be able to afford to pay off all those things that you have bought. 
Now, most of the Joneses have filed for foreclosure, bankruptcy or both. Maybe you should too. It is what’s popular. The Joneses should take pity on you, after all, they did it. This does not make it anymore acceptable. It is about time we stand up and tell the Joneses to get over themselves. Stop caring what kind of car they drive or how big their house is. Realize that conspicuous consumption is not going to make you happy.
We are no more keeping up with the Joneses than they are with us. Reconsider what’s important. Spending time with family and friends is more important than what car you drive or the clothes you wear. Working 100 plus hours a week to afford the life other expect of you, is no way to live. We are only making it harder on our selves.
Please do not think for one moment that am against the buying of houses. After all that is how I make my money. I do believe in responsible home ownership. People do not have the right to own a home. Owning a home is a privilege and a responsibility. A responsibility that many are not ready for. Just because the Joneses own a home does not mean you should as well.
About Ed Neuhaus
Broker and founder of Neuhaus Realty Group. I started working in real estate as soon as I could push a lawnmower and help clean up investment properties for my parents. Investing in real estate has always been a passion and now I have turned that passion into a way to help others. Buying and selling homes for others is just one way I think I can make the world better. No sales pressure, no gimmicks, just an honest work ethic gets the job done. Let me know how I can help you. Give me a call today at 512.366.3720
