Why must all new homes and hotels be upscale and boutique_ Have we lost the ability to be content with simple things_We wring our hands because young families can no longer afford homes here, yet builders continue to put up houses that cost $500,000 or more. As a society, we need to rethink our priorities. I would rather live in a smaller house that provides my needs than a palace I could not afford. I would rather vacation in a simple hotel and spend money on things like dinners and recreation, not in upscale amenities.