If you’re trying to determine whether it’s better to own or rent a home, there are many factors to consider. Both options have their merits and downsides. Owning a home might seem like the more overwhelming choice of the two, yet there are lots of reasons to consider it. Here are some of the major benefits to home ownership:
Buying a home is an excellent investment. The value of your property can increase naturally over time and even more so with every upgrade to your home. Even responsible upkeep can be enough to maintain and increase the value so that you can get a great price if you decide to sell. If your home is in a quickly growing area with popular schools, access to services and other desirable traits, you will hold incredible value by owning your own property.
When you own a home, your regular costs rarely fluctuate. While usage-based utility bills can certainly vary from one month to the next, your mortgage payment will always be the same. This makes budgeting easier and can help you prepare your finances. Property taxes and HOA fees are other examples of regular costs that you can expect on a set schedule.
Home ownership means you have complete flexibility with things like renovations and design. Rather than face restrictions and fees for painting the walls or putting up shelves, you can make those decisions yourself. You can tear down walls, build additions or even replace the roof at will. If your home has outdoor space, you can control your own landscaping design. Freedom to customize your home means the freedom to make it your own.
Home ownership is not for everyone. However, there are some excellent advantages to consider if you’re trying to decide on your next steps in real estate. Keep these things in mind to help you make the best choice.
Kate Hogan – Amherst MA Realtor ® and Pioneer Valley
Your number one source for Real Estate in Amherst, MA, and surrounding towns!
Kate Hogan, a 20-year resident of Amherst and Top Producer at Brick & Mortar realty, has that unique combination of qualities you need in an agent: a big picture view of the entire Five College area, towns, and neighborhoods, a high standard of professionalism, and an innate talent for understanding homes. All of that, plus this savvy agent is known for being experienced, knowledgeable, and a lot of fun to work with. As a full-time real estate professional, Kate’s approach is focused on getting to know her clients as real people and taking care of them from beginning to end.
