This is difficult to explain. I can’t figure out a rule of thumb for spending, the prices of things fluctuate so quickly it’s confusing. Here are some examples
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A house, prices are out of control, inventory is low, sellers are greedy. I’m feeling not only unable to afford it but finding lack of value in inflated prices
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Computer parts. Relatively cheap compared to pandemic but more expensive than before but also much cheaper than 90s/00s, but still could be cheaper
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TWS earbuds, completely different ball game from regular earbuds, disposable electronics.
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Food. Nights out with drinks now sometimes cost me more than 2 & 3, but seem like just keeping up with inflation
The prices range from 100,000s to 100s, but some are fleeting, some semi permanent, some last a long time. I also spend hours researching prices of parts and waiting for sales, but spending the same amount on social events in an instant
Utility, not market value.
I reckon the utility of our house is equal to some % of the average or median (probably median) wage in my city, plus some premium for it being a house not apartment. Calculate that monthly or annual amount and back into a reasonable cost of housing.
Market value of the house is what I could sell it for. Right now that is much, much more than what a house is “worth”.
Which leads to funny conversations because I think we overpaid for our house & husband thinks we got a good deal. And both are true.