4 Most Common Myths About Purchasing Real Estate

Purchasing a home is a major decision that requires a significant financial investment. It's no wonder then, that there are many myths surrounding the purchase of real estate. In this article we will explore four of the most common misunderstandings about buying a home. We will look at why these misconceptions can lead to bad decisions, and give you practical information to help you make the right decision.

Myth 1: Your home is just an investment

It is a common misconception that buying a home is an investment. While owning a home does provide some benefits, such as tax deductions, there are many factors to consider before taking this route, such as property values.

Real estate purchases should not be seen as investments in the traditional sense of the word. That’s because any money put into buying or improving a home is not liquid; you cannot easily turn it into cash when needed. Furthermore, there are certain costs associated with owning real estate that can eat away at returns, including maintenance and repairs, insurance, and taxes. 

Real estate has historically been an attractive option for building wealth over time, but you should know both the risks and rewards before you buy a home. Before you decide to invest in real estate, it's important to know everything about this complicated process.

Myth 2: Home ownership ties you down

Homeownership is a big step for any family, but there's a myth that it ties you down. Contrary to popular belief, owning a home does not limit your freedom and can be beneficial for many reasons. Real estate professionals are here to help guide prospective buyers through this process without the worry of being tied down. 

When it comes to buying a home, one of the main worries is being "tied down" from making lifestyle changes or moving. However, with today's market there are many different types of real estate investments available that don't require long-term commitments, such as condominiums and co-ops rentals. These options make it easier for those who want to purchase property without feeling constrained by their surroundings or finances.

Myth 3: It’s too expensive

Real estate is a huge investment, and when considering whether to take the leap and buy a home, many people may find themselves dissuaded by sticker shock. After all, with skyrocketing prices in the market today, it's understandable that potential buyers might think buying a home is beyond their financial reach. Yet this assumption—the myth that it's too expensive—may be unfounded. 

 First, there are plenty of ways to save money when buying a house. Shopping around for mortgages and getting multiple quotes can help you find the best rates possible. You can also save a lot of money if you look for homes in less developed areas or neighborhoods.

Myth 4: You need 20% down

This may have been true in the past, but today's truth is actually quite different.

The reality is, you can buy a home with as little as three or even zero percent down! That said, if you do put down less than 20 percent, it’s important to understand that most lenders will require private mortgage insurance (PMI) which can increase your monthly payments and closing costs significantly. It is also important to note that some loan programs offer lower interest rates for those who make larger down payments. When you are looking for a new home, this should always be considered.

Interested in learning more? Feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to help answer any questions you might have about buying a home!