Top 10 Facts About Owning A Home

206 S. Wash. St. - Tiffin, OH 44883 - 419.443.HOME (4663) - M-F 9-5

1. Home ownership is a good investment.
Home ownership offers advantages not found in other investments. It offers leverage and the possibility of appreciation in value. Unlike other investments, you can use it while it's working for you.

2. Money isn't the only thing to consider.
When you're buying a home, money is important. But remember, you're buying more than just a roof over your head.

3. Young people aren't priced out of the market.
Statistics show that young people make up a large portion of home buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median age of first-time buyers is 28 years.

4. Renting does not protect you against rising occupancy prices.
Rentals are just as susceptible as houses to rising tax, insurance, utility and maintenance costs, and landlords eventually pass those added costs on to tenants.

5. You asking price should be based on neighborhood market comparisons.
The more realistic you asking price, the quicker you'll sell. Many sellers think their homes are worth more than they really are. If too high a price is set, the house could languish for lack of buyers, and each month that goes by costs you in mortgage, insurance and taxes.

6. You can't afford to overlook the tax breaks.
Mortgage interest and property taxes are deductible. These big-ticket items can save you hundreds of dollars each year.

7. Over-improving may be a costly mistake.
If you add to much to your house, you risk pricing it out of the market, and if you improvements are too personal, you may hurt your chances of a good sale.

8. The waiting game is a losing game.
In recent years, many families have put off buying a house, waiting for prices to come down. The facts prove that those who play the waiting game most likely will end up losing.

9. There's really no best time to sell a house.
If the housing market is strong, you'll get a higher price for your house. But then you'll have to turn around and pay a higher price for whatever else you're buying - or renting. And, you may have to pay a higher interest rate on your new mortgage as well.

10. A good real estate agent earns his or her fee - and then some.
Many homeowners try to sell their own homes. Unfortunately, they find it difficult because they don't have a systematic way to do it quickly, easily and at the best possible price. Marcie & Associates Realty, Inc. agents do - and that's how they can save you time and money.