1. Is There Really a Free Lunch??? The $8,000 tax credit for first
time home buyers is valid through December 1, 2009. This is a special
tax credit from the government that does not have to be paid back, as
long as you stay in the home for at least 36 months.
2. Grandma Could Not Of Done Better!! Based on recent property
declines and current interest rates, home affordability has not been
higher since it was first tracked over 40 years ago. Your grandparents
couldn't have received a better interest rate than you can today.
3. Uncle Sam Still Likes Home Owners! The IRS allows you to deduct
the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes and, in many
cases for those who qualify, some of the costs to buy your home and
mortgage insurance. Owning a home is a great way to lower your tax bill.
4. Don’t Throw Your Money Away!! Unlike paying rent, with each
mortgage payment you make, you build equity and you decrease your
income tax liability. Owning a home is still the best long-term
investment.
5. You Will Appreciate This!! As home prices have fallen
precipitously in today's tough economy, the basis for realizing
appreciation in future years is very strong. Historically, even with
other periods of declining value, home prices have exceeded consumer
inflation. From 1972 through 2005, home prices increased on average
6.5%, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
6. Is There Anything You Can Bank On?? Knowing you can establish
roots and raise a family in one location, free of the desires or needs
of your landlord to sell the property you are living in. This is
something no other investment provides. You can't live in a stock, and
you can't raise your kids in a bond.