The American dream of homeownership is still a good bet, financial advisors say firmly.
Despite the downturn in the last couple of years, homes have still appreciated an average of 4 percent a year since World War II. Plus, it’s a leveraged investment; a 10 percent down payment yields a 1,000 percent return if the price of the home doubles.
There are a number of personal and emotional reasons to buy a home. But there are also some strong financial reasons to make the investment. Here are just a few of those reasons:
Increase Net Worth: Few things have a greater impact on net worth than owning a home. In a comparison of renters versus homeowners, the Federal Reserve Board of Consumer Finance found that the average net worth of renters was just $4,000 compared to homeowners at $184,400.
A Big Tax Deduction: One of the largest tax deductions available is the amount of interest paid on a mortgage. In fact, a $150,000 home at a 5.50% interest rate can add up to approximately $8,000 in first year's interest. This amounts to a significant savings – effectively reducing the amount of a homeowner's monthly mortgage payment.
Long-Term Appreciation: Over the last few years, home prices have corrected and become more affordable. While that's good news for potential buyers, it has overshadowed the long-term appreciation of a home's value. The reality is, despite market ups and downs between 1950 and 2002, US home prices appreciated at an annual growth rate of 4.8%. Even if you calculate a modest appreciation of 3%, a home purchased today for $150,000 will grow in value to $364,000 over 30 years.
There are also other valuable intangibles. Owning a home provides independence, security, community, and a roof over the owner’s head. No one can say that about investing in stock.
And don't forget that the government is now offering $8,000 and $6,500 tax credits, if you qualify, through May 1, 2010.
Source: Associated Press, Envoy Mortgage
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