The Home Buyer's Guide

Introduction

Owning a home is more than a smart financial investment; it’s an investment in the quality of life –particularly if you have a family or if you’re planning one. You can decorate or renovate however you like, customize your landscape, rule the roost! It’s your home.

The guide below provides a detailed look at the home buying process for first-time homebuyers. But before diving in, ask yourself, “Is this the right time for me to buy?” The considerations below will help to answer that question.

Owning versus Renting

Owning a home does come with risks and responsibilities that you don’t have to deal with when you rent. Things like a mortgage, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, home maintenance, and repairs. Even so, financial advisors and homeowners themselves know that there are far more advantages than disadvantages to owning.

For instance, over time you’ll generally lose money by continuing to rent versus owning your own home. Why not build up equity in your own home instead of paying your landlord’s mortgage? Although there are periodic market drops, owning a home has historically been an unequaled financial investment. You gain many ongoing tax benefits, such as deducting the interest on your mortgage and property taxes from your income tax.

Do you qualify to own?

Get your financial facts straight. Go to your bank or other lending institution and have them perform a credit check and general financial analysis. Also, keep in mind that you may be eligible for loans insured by the Veterans Administration (VA) or the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

Is it a good time to buy?

Generally speaking, if you’re financially qualified and ready for change, your timing is right. The bottom line is that if you are currently renting but want to own a home, have the funding, and the right real estate professional to guide you - it's a good time to buy.

An experienced real estate professional can assess the current local market conditions and fully inform you about your options. As an industry insider, a professional agent will often get the scoop on great real estate opportunities you might otherwise miss!