From day one, all American children are taught that anyone can grow up to be President. The reality is only a handful of citizens have ever earned that role. Despite that, America is still considered the land of opportunity teeming with the pursuit of the American Dream. While rising to the top of the political heap may be next to impossible, living like the official head of state can be a reality as currently several former presidential homes are for sale.
For some, owning the home of a celebrity, musician or legendary bad boy is a lifetime goal easily achieved by securing a jumbo mortgage. For those who fantasized about being the leader of the nation and living in the White House but have yet to achieve that vision, living in the former home of a political leader may be the next best thing and here are some options from across the nation.
President Barack Obama: Chicago Home
Regardless of if you love him or hate him, President Barack Obama has been accredited with changing the face of politics for future generations to come. President Obama is the first black man to be elected into office of the head of government, and his ethnicity has been an inspiration to many. Those with the extra $1.65 million to spare can pay homage to the nation's 44th president by purchasing the former residency of the Obama family in Chicago, Illinois.
Recently Barack and Michelle Obama placed their former Chicago residence on the local multiple listing service. The spacious home features 6,500 square feet and is located on a tree-lined street across from Kenwood Park. The property is located in the heart of Kenwood and is very close to the University of Chicago.
President Bill Clinton: New York Home
Bill and Hillary Clinton are a true power couple in the political world. President Bill Clinton served the country as the nation's 42 president and after his term was complete, Hillary set her sites on the Presidential goal. Her evolution to that position started with the couple buying a home and planting roots in Chappaqua, New York. With that address to their name, Hillary was able to start pursuing her political career and was elected a New York State Senator in 2006. It was that position backed by her education and endorsement of her husband that fueled her campaign for the Presidency. Unfortunately she lost to President Obama, and instead became the country's Secretary of State. By earning that job, Hillary Clinton has become the first former First Lady to serve in a president's cabinet.
As Secretary of State, Hillary is responsible for traveling the world and dedicated to foreign affairs. This position has allowed the Clintons to rack up plenty of frequent flyer miles and has required them to relocate closer to Washington D.C. during this time period. As a result, the 5,200 square foot home in Chappaqua is available to those able to meet the $1.33 million price tag.
President Ronald Reagan: California Home
During his lifetime President Ronald Reagan had done it all. In the first incarnation of his professional life, Ronald Regan first gained notoriety as a Hollywood actor, and later as a strong minded Democrat. However, after changing parties, he became the voice and face of the Republican organization, first as the Governor of California and later as the 40th President of the United States.
It was his position as a spokesperson for General Electric that provided President Reagan with the platform for his future agenda and additionally, allowed him to own a home in the Pacific Palisades. Because of his relationship with the company in the 1960s, his home was decked out with all the latest GE gadgets. That four-bedroom home complete with swimming pool and 4,700 square feet was recently listed at over $3 million.
Chances are most consumers do not have the Presidential sized salaries to pay for any of the homes in cash and a mortgage will be required to seal the deal. Individuals who have amassed the down payment amounts and the excellent credit history needed to secure a great mortgage rate are more than welcome to pursue owning former Presidential digs.
