further adding to equity (what the house could be sold for versus what is owed on it). Discounting certain blip periods, such as the 2006 housing bubble burst, home prices in the U.S. appreciate nationally at an average annual rate between 3% and 5%. Remember, though, home value appreciation in different metro areas can appreciate at markedly different rates than the national average. Improvements increase your home’s value. A homeowner can also increase a home’s value through home improvements, thus both making your home more comfortable and enjoyable while growing its loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. For instance, adding a bathroom or finishing a basement substantially increases the property’s functionality and appeal, while potentially boosting its value. Pride of ownership goes a long way. Tax advantages of home ownership. There are significant tax benefits associated with buying a house, both at the time of purchase and for the duration of time you own the home: • Federal tax deductions. When you’re looking to purchase a home, it’s important to understand what can be deducted on your tax return and what can’t. Property taxes and interest paid on your mortgage can be deducted if you itemize your federal income taxes, which can reduce your income tax burden. Many home buyers, unfortunately, overlook the effect of mortgage interest on their federal income tax payments. Mortgage interest can be a powerful financial planning tool. Calculate the amount of mortgage interest deductions you are eligible for, and include that in your annual financial planning. Then, make a point of checking Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1098, which you’ll receive from your lender at
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