1. Equity: When you pay rent, you never see that money again. It is lining the landlord’s pocket. Yes, buying a home may come with some hefty initial costs (down payment, closing costs, inspections), but you will make that money back over time in equity built in the home. Historically, homes appreciate by about 4 to 6 percent a year. Some areas are still experiencing normal appreciation rates. For the areas that have seen harder times since the recession, experts feel that the housing market will recover. Home ownership is about building long-term wealth. Homes in Florida will eventually go up in value again.
2. Relationships: Renters tend to see their neighbors come and go quickly. Homeowners, however, have yards, walking trails, or community pools and clubhouses where they can get to know each other. Neighbors stay put much longer (at least three to five years if they hope to recoup their closing costs). This means more time to develop relationships. Research has shown that people with healthy relationships have more happiness and less stress. Put down some roots for your family to enjoy for years.
3. Predictability: Well, as long as you have a fixed-rate term on your mortgage it’s predictable. Most people buying homes today know that a fixed-rate is the way to go. This means your payment amount is fixed for the life of the term. This allows for people to budget and make solid financial plans. The sub-prime crisis meant many homeowners with adjustable rate mortgages saw their monthly payments rise and then rise some more. Home ownership, though, generally comes with a predictable table of expenditures. Even the big purchases are predictable. You know most roofs last just 15 years (or so). You know that each year what you need to spend to maintain your home in good condition.
4. Ownership: Home ownership means you “own” your home. That comes with some incredible perks, though! You can renovate, update, paint, and decorate to your heart’s desire. You can plant trees, install a pool, expand the patio, or do holiday decorating. The bottom line is this is your home and you can personalize it to your taste. Most renters are stuck with the same beige walls and beige carpet and cheap kitchen cabinets and noisy neighbors that have been standard apartment decor for 20 years. Now is your chance to be creative!
5. Great Deals: It’s a great time to buy. Interest rates are at historic lows. We’re talking 4.0 percent instead of 6.0 or higher. This means big savings for today’s buyers. Home prices have also taken a dip since the recession, which means homes are more affordable than ever. If you have steady income and cash for a down payment, then be sure to talk to me about what homes in your area could be a fit for you. Home ownership can be a real joy. It’s time to get off the fence and into a home that is right for you! Don’t let this chance slip by. You must take action and call today to get started.

5 Reasons Why Home Ownership is Great is a post from: Tampa Homes Best Buys Blog

Investors are buying houses again is a post from: Tampa Homes Best Buys Blog

Tampa Home Sales Bounce Back! is a post from: Tampa Homes Best Buys Blog

First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit Extended is a post from: Tampa Homes Best Buys Blog