Warren Buffett was once asked if college in America is still worth it.

Core Insights - The article discusses the complexities and considerations surrounding the return on investment (ROI) of higher education in the current economic climate, highlighting the significant financial burden it poses on individuals and families [2][5][6]. Group 1: Higher Education Investment - Higher education is framed as a substantial upfront investment that can significantly impact an individual's financial situation, raising questions about its long-term value [2][4]. - The article references Warren Buffett's reflections on the ROI of his own college education, suggesting that the benefits of higher education may not be as clear-cut as they once were [4][8]. - A study indicates that while college graduates earn approximately 86% more over their lifetime compared to high school graduates, nearly half of all master's degrees may yield a negative ROI [14][15]. Group 2: Financial Planning for Education - The importance of saving early for education expenses is emphasized, as it can help mitigate the burden of student loans and leverage the benefits of compound interest [10][9]. - Various financial products, such as certificates of deposit (CDs), are mentioned as potential tools for saving for education, offering fixed interest rates over time [11][12]. - The article suggests that individuals should consider their personal balance sheets and the relationship between assets and liabilities when making decisions about education and investments [3][17]. Group 3: Alternative Investment Opportunities - The article highlights real estate as a reliable investment option, particularly during inflationary periods, due to its intrinsic value and income-generating potential [19][20]. - Platforms like Mogul offer fractional ownership in rental properties, allowing investors to benefit from real estate without the need for large capital outlays or direct management responsibilities [21][22]. - The investment offerings on such platforms are designed to provide attractive returns, with average annual internal rates of return (IRR) around 18.8% and cash-on-cash yields between 10% and 12% [22][23].