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Most people have thoughts about homeownership. Now, with the interest rates at its all-time low and it's Buyer's Market condition, it is typically a good time to buy. Sellers are reducing prices to attract buyers. However, before you take the plunge into homeownership, note that it will cost you more than just the monthly mortgage payments alone.

When renting, all you typically would put aside on your monthly budget would be the rent payments. If the fridge breaks down, or the window breaks, all you would do is to pick up the phone and call the landlord or management. Someone will fix the leaky faucet or broken door. On the other hand, when you own your own home and if you have a tight budget to live with, chances are Murphy will move into your spare bedroom. So, the cost of homeownership suddenly does not smell as rosy anymore. It's not just in the monthly payments.

When you own your own home, be it your first home or your move-up home, your mentality about "stuff" around the house changes. It is not going to be Aunt Beth's couch, or Grandma Perkey's dining table. These furniture are just not going to cut it. Hmmmm.... our style is more electic, or more contemporary, French Country, etc........ Hand-me downs and mis-matched stuff just do not quite suit the taste. So, out you go to the local furniture store to find you the set of leather couch or plasma TV that you want. So, again, it's not just in the monthly payments.

Or how about this? Assuming you are doing the best you can with Uncle Rob's bed and your best friend's sofa, you have the "need" of a shelf above the laundry sink to drip dry some good clothing. Or picking the brand-new never lived in house..... You have to buy window coverings. Even those temporary ones cost over $5 a piece and how many windows do you have in your new home? I know because I have experienced it. Home Depot and Lowes become your second home. So, again, it's not just in the monthly payments.

I am not even going to there about entertaining family and friends in your new backyard. You get the picture.

I help pursue the American dream. But I want clients and buyers to know that there is a real cost of homeownership that goes beyond just making the monthly payments. It is real. Cost of Homeownership is really 30-35% more than your rent.

Renting temporarily is not a sin. It never has to mean FOREVER. But it takes a smarter, wiser person to know that it might be the smarter thing to do.

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