Sometimes you have to Go For It : Masters tips for the Tiger in You. It's Masters week at Augusta again, and I started thinking in golf lingo. Should I lay up and hope I can get up and down for par, or Should I go for it ? What do I have to lose? Ever see the movie "Tin Cup". Kevin Costner's character went for it, and yes he lost the tournament, but in the long run he was the real winner because he went for it. Unless I have everything to lose if I fail, (which is foolish gambling), I know my abilities and I'm going to go for it. Risk vs Reward. Is this yesterdays credo? Have we become beaten down to the point we no longer take any risks? There is a huge difference between taking a risk and being reckless. I don't live in a bubble or carry an airbag strapped to my body. I still take risks. What kind of risks you ask? Mainly calculated risks, that will help me accommodate my family and their future. Sure buying a Home is a calculated risk, but it's mainly a need to keep out of the weather and a means to enhance your life. There is not an iron clad guarantee that you will receive a big return on your investment. Especially a short term return. But take this into moderation. Investing in the stock market should be a calculated risk. There's a chance your stock value will decrease. Again, this a long term investment. So where do I come off when both housing and stocks have tanked in the past year? I say, buy low, and sell only if you have the need. Len Harley wrote a great post discussing motivations regarding home purchases for the past few years. In it, she rightly points out, that the prevalent motivation of home ownership is having a place to call home, not to make a short term killing. Home purchases are a long term investment. And for most, it is a worthy risk. If you want a gimick or a slogan that makes you feel good because it's "risk-free" ..good luck. Here is a risk free strategy - put your money in a coffee can and bury it. Don't tell anybody, and draw a map to where it is...then hide the map...and hope you remember where the map is. With this risk-free strategy you can become the modern day "Black Beard" . There are risks in almost everything. There has never been a more opportune time to buy Real Estate. Housing prices are extremely low and 30 yr. mortgage rates are are as low as they will ever be. And If you are a first time home buyer, there is an $8,000 bonus waiting for you, compliments of Uncle Sam. So when people ask if now is a good time to "risk" getting into buying a home, I tell them, "get the best information you can from your Realtor (Tm), and if its worth the calculated risk, Then I tell them "Swing Away" ..and go for it !, .. your "Tin Cup" results will eventually help you". Don't wait for tomorrow.