Interesting you mention the difference between the haves and the havenots over the last 20 years .
Maybe it's just me gaining experience over time but I actually reckon it's easier rather than harder . Sure , there are some incredibly wealthy people getting around but I think the low end is better off than they've ever been . I reckon it's a perception thing .
E.g. With property ( and everything else ) there is so much information available these days . Credit is more available if used correctly and people have greater opportunity .