Owning a home may seem like just a dream in the current North Atlanta Real Estate market, and while there may be some apparent obstacles like lack of inventory and climbing prices, it’s a dream that is a more often than not, a sound idea.
Since current housing conditions favor sellers over buyers in numerous markets including our north Atlanta Market, many feel discouraged about the prospect of achieving that particular “dream” at this time. Which is why our team thinks this is a perfect time to remind you about the many financial advantages that homeownership can bring to individuals, and communities alike.
- Price appreciation.
Real estate prices do move in cycles but have consistently increased in value, making homes a solid long-term investment. Many investors also view homes as a hedge against inflation. During inflationary periods, the cost of the goods and services that you purchase will rise, but so will the value of your home. - Forced savings.
Monthly rent payments help your landlord, not you, own property. With a mortgage, part of your monthly payment goes towards building equity ownership in your home. Down the road, homeowners are able to tap into these savings with a home equity loan. Or, that equity can help homeowners afford a different home as needs change, especially when the equity that has been built is combined with the home’s price appreciation. - Tax advantages.
Several aspects of the U.S. Tax Code favor homeowners. Mortgage interest and property taxes, for example, are deductible expenses, although it’s always a good idea to check with a qualified accountant. Since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act went into effect, you might save more by claiming the higher standard deduction.
If you sell your home, you take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) in profits without owing capital gains tax, as long as you’ve lived in your home for two of the past five years. And if you don’t qualify for the
capital gains exclusion, you might be eligible for other preferential tax treatments.
- Predictability.
Rent prices can increase each year, but a fixed-rate mortgage gives you better control over future housing payments. Take a look at our Mortgage Calculator Page to view your potential numbers.
Other, non-financial benefits include:
- You Can Make It YOURS.
Pride of ownership and creating YOUR space may be the single most attractive aspect of buying a home instead of renting. Paint the walls whatever color you like. Pound holes in the walls for fixtures, artwork, and window treatments to your heart’s content. It’s your home, and you make the choices!
Of course, when it comes to expensive remodeling decisions, it’s also a good idea to be smart about the decisions you make. There are certain upgrades that always pay you back, plus some, and others that are more likely to provide payback than others. Choose wisely!
- Become Part of a Community.
When you choose a home to purchase, you’re also selecting a community. It’s an opportunity to build vital relationships and feel connected beyond the four walls of your house.
- Security and privacy.
The recent health crisis has taught us much about the value of feeling safe and secure in our homes. Even in “normal” times, we all need places where it’s easy to rest, relax, and recharge.
What do you think? Are you ready to find your home? To start looking for your dream home, you can read about all the wonderful North Atlanta Communities you may want to get to know.
Contact us today!
