ICeniuye phelps@century21 dickinson.com REAL ESTATE O: It seems that the population of small towns is decreasing. Does this equate to more homes available on the market? Dick Phelps A: High school graduates often leave small towns to go to college or take jobs not available in small towns. After graduation, small town populations see a drop as high as 29%. This would sure seem to indicate that houses would then be available. This drop in population does not equate to more homes available. Young people may leave but the empty-nester parents remain. Population decreases, but occupied homes stay the same. Census data shows that many in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, actually move to the rural areas. With them, they often bring a college degree, work experience, professional contacts, and children. City dwellers choose to move to rural areas seeking a simpler life, safety, and low house costs. There are several reasons stated for why those aged 30-45 decide to move to rural areas. The top 5 reasons given are: Less congestion, better environment for raising children, better quality schools, safer overall, and lower cost of housing. High speed internet now available in many of the small towns is a huge draw allowing work from these areas. For Questions Contact: Dick Phelps 218-766-5263 e rphelps@century21dickinson.com DICKINSON REALTORS ICeniuye phelps@century21 dickinson.com REAL ESTATE O: It seems that the population of small towns is decreasing. Does this equate to more homes available on the market? Dick Phelps A: High school graduates often leave small towns to go to college or take jobs not available in small towns. After graduation, small town populations see a drop as high as 29%. This would sure seem to indicate that houses would then be available. This drop in population does not equate to more homes available. Young people may leave but the empty-nester parents remain. Population decreases, but occupied homes stay the same. Census data shows that many in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, actually move to the rural areas. With them, they often bring a college degree, work experience, professional contacts, and children. City dwellers choose to move to rural areas seeking a simpler life, safety, and low house costs. There are several reasons stated for why those aged 30-45 decide to move to rural areas. The top 5 reasons given are: Less congestion, better environment for raising children, better quality schools, safer overall, and lower cost of housing. High speed internet now available in many of the small towns is a huge draw allowing work from these areas. For Questions Contact: Dick Phelps 218-766-5263 e rphelps@century21dickinson.com DICKINSON REALTORS