Follow Your Dream
FOLLOW YOUR DREAM
It’s a new year and time to brush off the goal list. Here is a little inspiration written by poet Amanda Bradley to help you start anew.
“Follow your dream. Take one step at a time and don’t settle for less, just continue to climb. Follow your dream. If you stumble, don’t stop and lose sight of your goal, press on to the top. For only on top can we see the whole view, we can see what we’ve done and what we can do, can we then have the vision to seek something new. Press on and follow your dream.”
During the past several years the economy has taken its toll on the dreams of many Americans. A combination of a weak employment market, poor investment returns, depreciating home values, loss of personal liberty, and uncertainty about the future has made many people question the greatness of our country and hope for continued abundance. This includes some people thinking owning a home is not such great idea any more.
Personally, I believe owning a home is the epitome of freedom. Property ownership rights, for the most part, are highly protected. It’s yours and you can do with it, or in it, as you please. It’s also a place for family, friends, and precious memories.
Although the past few years have been difficult for sellers, home ownership continues to be an excellent long-term investment. With mortgage rates less than 4% for a 30-year conventional loan and almost 3% for 15 years, coupled with decreased home values, the buying power today is extraordinary. A person can own a home nearly twice as nice today, than just four years ago for the same monthly payment. Ironically, the cost to rent is nearly the same as owning. It’s so attractive, it may be smart to purchase a second home for either investment or future college costs.
Think about it. Purchase a home today; take out a fixed 15-year mortgage, and in 15 years your home is free of debt. No more rent or house payments. One can also anticipate an increase in value someday due to inflation; plus, the value is usually free from income tax.
The bottom line is simple. Focus on long term rather than on short term. Just because we stumbled recently doesn’t mean there isn’t a better view ahead. Think of the dream instead of just the step. Take advantage of low mortgage rates now while you can. They won’t last forever. Find a great house that fits your lifestyle and enjoy. Later, you can dwell in delight of your prudent move in 2012.
Not sure of how to proceed? There is an answer. It’s called The Dream Home Vision Process (we even have a book written about it) and it will help you find more clarity, maximize your dollars, and save you valuable time!
We invite you to call.
Tony Ratchford,
Real Estate Broker
CRS, SRES, ABR
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