Homeownership can be more than a dream
By the U of A System Division of Agriculture
Fast Facts:
-
- Careful planning, shopping can make homeownership happen
- Timing, budget, credit scores all work into becoming homeowner
(300 words)
LITTLE ROCK -- Homeownership can be so much more than a dream with some careful planning, said Laura Connerly, assistant professor and family financial expert for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
“It is the dream of many to own their own four walls and it’s an achievable dream,” she said, adding that it’s important “for each consumer to carefully consider the options. Housing is the largest fixed expense for most consumers.”
Among the factors to consider before buying a home:
Timing - “The rule of thumb is that you’ll need to be in the home three to five years to recoup
the closing costs and fees,” Connerly said. “One of the main reasons to buy versus
rent is that real estate is typically an appreciating asset. If you’re not going to
be there long enough for the property to increase in value, it might not be worth
the hassle of moving.” Another reason to wait is that some consumers prefer to avoid
the cost of borrowing money. “You might want to take time to save enough for a larger
down payment or the full purchase price,” she said.
Budget - Housing costs – including taxes and insurance – should be around 25-30 percent of
your income. “That allows enough money in your budget to cover other household and
living expenses,” Connerly said. “Be sure not to overextend yourself on a house payment.”
Make a list of all of your expenses and include the money you put aside for saving
and investing each month. “You may qualify for a loan amount that’s larger than you
need,” she said. “Make sure your house payments are manageable and leave plenty of
room in your budget for food, transportation, retirement saving, insurance, and everything
else you need.” Consumers should also build an emergency fund large enough to cover
the cost of the house payments plus other expenses for at least two months.
Shopping – The larger the expense, the more important it is to shop around. “Compare not only houses, but also lenders,” Connerly said. “Look for a home that will be a good investment and look for the lender with the best rates and fees.” Consumers with higher credit scores qualify for the best rates on loans. The best deals are usually on 15-year fixed rate mortgages. Fewer years and lower interest rates will save thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
To learn more about personal and family finances, contact your county agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu.
The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact your County Extension office (or other appropriate office) as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay.
The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
# # #
Media Contact: Mary Hightower
Dir. of Communication Services
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2126
mhightower@uada.edu
Related Links