Do you think of or need your house as an investment in your retirement plan? Many Americans see their homes as a valuable asset, often integral to their retirement strategy. Real estate is commonly regarded as a solid long-term investment, frequently favored over other options like stocks, gold, or savings accounts. Its appeal lies in the potential for value appreciation over time. However, it's wise to remember that the real estate market is subject to fluctuations. Property values can both increase and decrease, influenced by various market and economic factors. This reality highlights the importance of considering real estate as one component of a diversified investment portfolio, recognizing both its potential benefits and inherent risks. Are you financially ready? Owning a home is a financial commitment that requires planning how home ownership fits into where your life is headed. Ask yourself what your budget is and if either buying or renting would require you to stretch your finances. Crunch all the numbers. A frequent mistake of first-time home buyers is comparing a month’s rent to a month’s mortgage payment. Many people don’t have all the numbers. There are many additional fees necessary to include to make a fair comparison: principal interest, property taxes, property insurance, homeowners’ association (HOA) fees, and ongoing maintenance. Are you prepared for the down payment? This is the lump sum payment that funds your equity in the property (how much of the property you actually own). Down payments vary; 20% is preferred and gets the best rates. There are some loans that allow down payments as low as 3%. Sometimes relatives help with the down payment. If you have a choice, take a gift rather than a loan because lenders will add the loan debt to other monthly obligations and potential mortgage payments to determine your debt-to-income ratio, which generally can’t top 43% to qualify for a home loan.
18
Powered by FlippingBook