Financial Investment versus Home Sweet Home?

For several years with appreciation in Northern CA of double digits we looked at purchasing a house as a financial investment that was a smart move for our future or to pad our net worth or a needed tax deduction. Today with a real estate market that is flat (according to NAR 97 of 149 metro areas show and increase in year-over-year prices) we need to think more of buying a home for our family. "Home sweet home", the saying used to go.

You say "I don't want to lose money" and I understand that; my response is How long to you plan in living in your home? 18 months? 3 years? more? Historically real estate market cycles have lasted, on average, 33 months, and you can only lose money if you are forced to sell during a down market. Conversely you stand to gain significantly if you buy during a buyer's market with a lot of inventory to choose from and flat prices . . . LIKE TODAY!

So, I say QUIT TRYING TO TIME THE MARKET! Ask any stock investor or day trader; trying to time the market is difficult for the most experienced people who study it day in and day out! How many day traders do you know from the late 90s who are still trading?

Be selective, find the home that you and your family can live in for some time; you don't have to take what you can get, as was the case back in 2004. Move your family in and make it a home you will enjoy, not solely a financial investment. If you find a home your family enjoys and fits your lifestyle you are more likely to stay longer and gain all the financial benefits, and more, of long term home ownership.

Home Sweet Home Shopping!

For more information on buying a home, try . . . www.DKHomeBuyer.com !