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Why does the value of things in dollars not make sense? (lemm.ee)

submitted 1 year ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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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

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
Computer parts. Relatively cheap compared to pandemic but more expensive than before but also much cheaper than 90s/00s, but still could be cheaper
TWS earbuds, completely different ball game from regular earbuds, disposable electronics.
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

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[–] RBWells 1 points 1 year ago

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.