Tax Benefits

The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, and some of the costs involved in buying a home.

Appreciation

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Historically, real estate has had long-term, stable growth in value. In fact, median single-family existing-home sale prices have increased on average 5.2% each year from 1972 through 2014, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. 

Equity

Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.

Predictability

Unlike rent, your fixed-rate mortgage payments don’t rise over the years, so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will likely increase.

Savings

Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax.

Freedom

The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and choose the types of upgrades and new amenities that appeal to your lifestyle.

Stability

Remaining in one neighborhood for several years allows you and your family time to build long-lasting relationships within the community.

There is No “Right” Time To Buy

If you find the perfect home, don’t risk losing it because you’re trying to guess where the housing market and interest rates are going. Those factors usually don’t change fast enough to effect an individual home’s price.

Be Prepared 

Don't wait until you've found a home to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance, or consider a moving schedule. Being prepared is essential for you to get into the home of your dreams in today's market.

Don't Try To Be A Killer Negotiator

Negotiation innately part of the real estate process, but trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price or refusing to budge may cost you your dream home.

Accept That No House Is Ever Perfect

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It's in the right location, but the yard is smaller than you hoped. The kitchen is perfect, but the roof needs repair. Make a list of your top priorities and keep those in focus. Let the minor ones go.

Your Home Doesn't Exist In A Vacuum

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Don't get so caught up in the house's physical aspects that you forget about other important things such as noise, access to amenities, and other elements that impact your quality of life. 

Avoid Too Many Opinions 

It's natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas from too many people will make it much more difficult to make a decision. Focus on the wants and needs of the people who will actually be living in the home.