They’re just three words, but they carry a lot of swagger. “It’s my house.” That simple phrase has come to mean so much more as Americans have adopted home ownership as a national dream. It’s what we strive for and how we set our goals, giving us a tremendous sense of accomplishment when we’re handed the keys to our very own home.
We know it’s not just a piece of property. When someone buys a home, it becomes their own personal sanctuary, an oasis where they can let life’s troubles melt away. Any home can feel good, but it’s a far better feeling when the home actually belongs to you.
THE PRIDE SHOWS
You can tell when you’re driving through a neighborhood with a lot of owner-occupied homes. They’re generally kept up better than neighborhoods with more rentals because people take pride in the property they own as opposed to property they’re temporarily leasing.
Homeowners do simple repairs as they’re needed, not letting unsightly problems go long without being fixed. They keep their property neat and clean because it belongs to them and they have their own personal money at stake. They keep their lawn and landscaping in good shape so their home will leave a positive impression.
That all helps a home’s value, but there’s also a deeper reason for it. It’s the intrinsic value people find in owning their own piece of America.
LIVING THE DREAM
Home ownership is as much about fulfilling dreams as it is about having a comfortable place to spend time.
When someone buys a home, they’re making real their hopes and aspirations. Whether someone wants to buy a simple, humble home for the first time, move into a nicer neighborhood or live in a palatial castle, buying a home represents a dream fulfilled.
That’s another reason buying a home is so appealing. From first-time home buyers to people who want to simply upgrade to the home they’ve always wanted, one thing will always be the same: It’s a dream come true. And now is a great time to see your dreams become reality.
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER TIPS
MAKE SOME CHECKLISTS
Buying a home for the first time can be intimidating, but it’s much easier if you break it down into small parts. When shopping for a home, make a list of all the features you’re looking for. You can mark them off and keep track your favorite parts of all the
different houses you see. And after you make an offer, work with your agent to make a checklist of all the steps you need to take before closing. Not only will it help you stay organized, but it also makes the whole process feel more doable.
REAL ESTATE GLOSSARY
PITI — Principal, interest, taxes and insurance. This refers to the entire house payment, which includes more than just the loan payment.
EARNEST MONEY — A deposit made by the home buyer to prove they have serious interest in buying the home.
