Monday, August 20, 2007

Making the Decision to Buy a Home

Why and when should I buy a home?
Today, home buyers have more choices than ever before. You can choose financing options that are flexible and affordable, home styles that fit a variety of lifestyles, and professional services that make the process fast, effective and enjoyable.

Here are some facts about buying a home that you should remember:

* Buying a Home can be a good investment opportunity. A house offers leverage and the possibility for appreciation in value. And, you can use this investment while it's working for you!
* You can't afford to overlook the tax breaks of homeownership. Since mortgage interest and property taxes are deductible, homeownership can save you money each year.
* Young people aren't priced out of the market. Figures from the National Association of Realtors put the average age of first-time buyers at 32 years old.
* Renting doesn't protect you against rising prices. Rental units are just as susceptible as houses to increases in taxes, insurance, utilities and other costs. Landlords will pass along these increases to the tenants.
* Waiting for prices to drop can work against you. Home prices fluctuate from city to city, and go up more often than they go down. Don't put off buying a home waiting for prices to come down.

Starting the Home Buying process

* Choose a professional who specializes in residential real estate. She or he should have specific knowledge of the local real estate and mortgage markets.
* Consider references carefully. An experienced, confident Agent can provide you with names of recent buyers in your market with whom he or she has worked.
* Select a professional who will listen to you. Your Agent should be interested enough in you to find out about you and your housing needs and preferences.
* Select a professional who puts service first. Strong customer service is key in today's real estate business. For Premier Service GMAC Real Estate Agents, this service goes above and beyond giving buyers only what they expect and need.

Your GMAC Real Estate Agent can show you any house that's for sale in your market - not just the homes listed by our company. If you see a house for sale that you like, arrange a viewing through us.

Commit yourself to working with one Agent who can learn your likes and dislikes in homes and make your home-buying process much easier. Turn to a GMAC Real Estate Agent for your real estate needs.


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