appraised value of your home could decrease, putting you at risk of a financial loss when you sell. DISADVANTAGES OF RENTING No equity building. The monthly rent you pay goes to the landlord. It represents the fee you pay for using the property. You gain no ownership in the property, no matter how long you live there. No tax benefits. While homeowners can deduct property taxes and mortgage interest on their tax returns, renters aren’t eligible for housing-related federal tax credits or deductions. Home improvements go to the landlord. Any structural and decorative home improvements that renters make belong to the building owner and will have to stay behind when you move to a different place. Additionally, approval for desired major redecoration will be necessary. After all is said, the decision to buy or rent depends on the prospective home buyer’s circumstances. There’s no denying, though, that a home of your own is a good financial and a great emotional investment. An investment in a home can also mean an investment in the future of your children. Little is better than leaving a home behind as a legacy for your children to enjoy. There is much to consider when you want to buy a home. Switching from renting to homeownership is highly challenging, but an exciting and amazing decision to make. Owning a first house is the first step in the direction toward the home we’ve all been dreaming of. Because, at the end of the day, as we all know, there is no place like home. • • •
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