Understanding the Advantages of Being a Homeowner
It’s true – there are some major advantages that come from being a homeowner. For instance, you are investing in an asset with the potential to appreciate, not just paying a landlord. In addition, the government has a whole package of benefits for homeowners, even beyond the $ 8,000 tax credit they’re currently offering to new homeowners. When tax season rolls around, you’ll also be able to deduct the interest on your mortgage, your property taxes and many other financial elements against your annual income.
That said, being a homeowner isn’t for everyone. There are a lot of reasons why you aren’t ready to make that leap yet. Let’s look at a few:
How Big is Your Bank Account?
Buying a home isn’t just switching who you send your monthly check to - there’s a lot more to homeownership than that. Before you even set foot in your new home, you’ll have to pay for home inspections, appraisals and the closing costs that are part of the home buying process. And, unfortunately, the fun doesn’t stop once the deal is finished.
Another thing to consider is whether or not you’ll be able to afford any major repairs your home needs once you’ve settled in. If you rent, your landlord takes care of things like leaking faucets, appliances on the fritz, and serious repairs. As a home owner, the ball is in your court to get these problems handled, and they get expensive. When you’re considering homeownership, take the time to determine whether or not you’d be able to cope with an extra $ 1,000 of repairs you weren’t expecting at any given time.
How Stable is Your Life?
Are you ready to settle down in one area? Or is it possible that your job will require relocation to another area? How stable your lifestyle is must be another consideration in buying a home.
Experts recommend that you don’t buy unless you’re willing to live in a home for three years at least, as it will take that long to turn a profit after expenses and commissions are factored in. Some analysts are extending this recommendation to five years, given the recent turmoil in the financial and real estate and housing sectors. Regardless of what is correct, the end result is the same - don’t buy a home until you are darn good and ready to stay there for a while.
So What Should You Do?
Becoming a homeowner isn’t like buying a Coke. Now is a great time to buy a home, as prices are lower than ever and there’s plenty of inventory along with government incentives for first time homebuyers and people looking to move. If it’s something you’re considering at all, make an appointment with your real estate agent and a mortgage lender to learn more about the home buying process.