I have realized the American dream …. in Ecuador, South America.

Today was closing day on my second story apartment in downtown Cotacachi.  I now own it free-and-clear; no mortgage. I have heard that most Americans never realize the American dream because they trade-up every five years, or so, and always have a mortgage to the bank.  All utilities are expected to total around $10.00 per month.  Property taxes are $152.00 per year.

Tomorrow I go to the electric company, order my own meter installed and go to the water company to get their meter installed.  I already have a land-line phone (with DSL soon).

The condo is basically a concrete tube of 1,100 square feet in a 3 1/2 story building with two bedrooms and two 3/4 baths.  I have to finish it (paint, tile, bath and kitchen fixtures) but assuming I do not do them all in 24-caret gold and marble like Saddam Husein´s palaces, I should be under $30,000.00 when I finish.

–Bob Baker