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First Time Home Buyers | Blog

Tuesday, May 2, 2023   /   by Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group

5 Reasons Millennials Are Buying Homes

In the United States, there are over 72 million millennials. If you’re part of that generation and have thought about buying a home, you aren’t alone. According to Zonda, 98% of millennials want to become a homeowner at some point if they aren’t already. But why? There are plenty of reasons you may choose to become a homeowner. Here’s why other millennials have made that decision (see graph below):
This graph shows why millennials are buying homes according to Zonda’s 6th annual millennial survey. The top reasons include building equity, a change in life stage, wanting stability, rising home values, and wanting to make somewhere truly their own. Here’s a look at each in more detail.
Building equity – Homeownership is a long-term investment that allows you to build wealth, increase your net worth, and become more financially stable. Beyond that, the alternative to owning a home is typically renting. With the way rents have risen so dramati. ...

  for buyers, first time home buyers, millennials

Tuesday, April 18, 2023   /   by Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group

Your Tax Refund Can Help You Achieve Your Homebuying Goals

Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a variety of expenses involved – from your down payment to closing costs. But there’s good news – your tax refund can help you achieve your goals by paying for some of these expenses.
SmartAsset estimates the average American will receive a $1,798 tax refund this year. The map below provides a more detailed estimate by state:
According to Freddie Mac, there are multiple ways your refund check can help you as a homebuyer. If you’re getting a refund this year and thinking about buying a home, here are a few tips to keep:
Saving for a down payment – One of the largest barriers to homeownership is saving for a down payment. You could reach your savings goal more quickly than expected by using your tax refund to help with your down payment.
Paying for closing costs – You have to pay fees to your lender, real estate agent, and other parties involved in the homebuying transac ...

  for buyers, housing market updates, first time home buyers, down payments, buying myths

Tuesday, April 4, 2023   /   by Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group

Facts About Closing Costs [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights
If you’re thinking about buying a home, be sure to plan for closing costs.
Closing costs are typically 2% to 5% of the total purchase price of a home, and they can include things like government recording costs, appraisal fees, and more.
Let’s connect so I can answer your questions about the homebuying process.

This blog post previously appeared on https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/en/2023/03/31/facts-about-closing-costs-infographic?a=106260-312309902871c1f0d820820f58bf8fde. The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. and the Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group do not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any in. ...

  for buyers, first time home buyers, infographics, buying myths

Tuesday, March 21, 2023   /   by Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group

4 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home

Are you planning to buy a home this spring? Though things are more balanced than they were at the height of the pandemic, it’s still a sellers’ market. So, when you find the home you want to buy, remember these four tips to make your best offer.
1. Lean on a Real Estate Professional
Rely on an agent who can support your goals. As Bankrate notes:
“. . . select the best real estate agent for your needs. They will be a critical part of your home buying process.”
Agents are local market experts. They know what’s worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for in an offer. It may seem simple, but catering to what a seller needs can help your offer stand out.
2. Know Your Budget
Understanding your budget is especially important right now. As Sandy Higgins, Senior Wealth Advisor at Capstone Financial Advisors, puts it:
“Understand your current budget … what are your expenses, how’s your spending, would you ne. ...

  for buyers, first time home buyers

Tuesday, March 14, 2023   /   by Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group

Buying a Home May Make More Sense Than Renting [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights

If you’re trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home, there are a few things you should consider.
Homeownership can help you escape the cycle of rising rents, builds your wealth, and serves as a hedge against inflation.
If you’re ready to take advantage of the benefits of homeownership, let’s connect to explore your options.


This blog post previously appeared on https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/en/2023/03/10/buying-a-home-may-make-more-sense-than-renting-infographic/?a=106260-312309902871c1f0d820820f58bf8fde. The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. and the Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group do not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. ...

  for buyers, first time home buyers, infographics, rent vs. buy, buying myths