JAMES SARLES

LET'S TALK REAL ESTATE

For many people, owning a home marks a significant step on the path to achieving the "Home-ownership Dream." But recent news headlines surrounding the current local Freeport economy and world economy have caused some potential homebuyers to sit on the sidelines hoping for the market to "hit bottom" while overlooking the many advantages of homeownership.

While owning a home continues to be a sound long-term investment which builds equity, this is not the only factor to consider when thinking about buying a home. Investing in a home offers immeasurable benefits that reach far beyond financial gains. When you purchase a home, you are making an investment in yourself, your family and your future."

Over the many years of selling real estate and helping hundreds of people buy and sell homes on Grand Bahama, we have identified the top six personal, social and emotional benefits of buying a home today:

1. Pride of Ownership: Pride of ownership is possibly the greatest benefit of all when it comes to owning a home. The feelings of accomplishment, safety and security that result from homeownership cannot be matched by any other purchase or investment.

2. Shelter: Buying a home is more than the sum of mortgage payments. Shelter is a basic need of human beings, yet the concept is often overlooked in the home buying process. Remember, a home is a place where one lives and raises a family. Plus, it's the only investment you can live in! Since it is a Buyers market home buyers today have the opportunity to be more selective in choosing a home that best fits their specific needs and wants.

3. Independence: A key difference between renting and owning is the flexibility a homeowner has in adapting a living space to individual tastes and needs. That means being able to decorate, renovate, landscape and add personal touches to one's surroundings- without having to check in with a landlord first. Home improvements also have the potential to increase the value of a home, making "independence" a personal and financial benefit of homeownership.

4. Stability: One of the biggest rewards of being a homeowner is the financial stability it provides. Knowing exactly what your payments will be each month throughout the term of your mortgage enables you to budget and plan for other things you'll want to do in life. The bulk of home-related expenses will remain stable and predictable over time.

5. Community: When you buy a home, you buy a share in a community – a social benefit rarely experienced by renters who are often considered "transient,' even after living in the same place for many years. Developing friendships with neighbours and feeling one has a place in the community fosters a safe and secure environment for oneself and one's family.

6. Improved Quality of Life: Without question, owning a home has its financial advantages. The true benefit of which is the improved quality of life a boost in personal finances can provide. Whether that means having additional money to spend on necessities like food and utilities or being fortunate enough to afford luxuries like a new car or a vacation, purchasing a home is making an investment in a better future.

So based on these six benefits don't you think it is time to think about home ownership? Don't sit on the sidelines, be a player and make your move. If you do not own a piece of the Rock start looking around because this is the right time to buy.

Until next week.