Buying or Selling a Home/house

Advertisement

Expert: - 4/6/2011


Question
I am trap between this:

Buy or Rent?

Answer
Hi Henry,
I don't know your situation, but generally speaking buying is a better deal for you than renting. All things being equal, when you rent you don't build any equity, you are virtually throwing money away. You also get a tax benefit from home ownership that you don't get while renting. If you have the ability to buy, meaning good credit, sufficient cash for downpayment and a property that will meet underwriters appraisal guidelines, then it is usually a better financial move to own. Along with that it is a great time to buy. Housing prices are at their lowest in 40 years, as are interest rates for mortgages. Large inventory means lots of choices for buyers. If you have lots of time, you may decide to go for a short sale or foreclosure (this process takes longer than a standard home sale). So all in all, I would generally recommend buying vs renting. I'd be happy to talk to you in more depth if you would like to call me at 518-469-9000.
Happy to help,
Laurie

Buying or Selling a Home

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Laurie Stephenson

Expertise

I can answer questions about Residential Real Estate in Upstate NY's Capital District area, from Albany to Lake George. I specialize in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding towns. I am a Buyers and Sellers Agent. Check out my website at www.lauriestephenson.com

Experience

Residential Buyers and Sellers Agent

Organizations
Greater Capital Association of Realtors, (GCAR) New York State Association of Realtors,(NYSAR) National Association of Realtors, (NAR)

Education/Credentials
Associate Broker

Awards and Honors
Million Dollar Club

Past/Present Clients
My goal is to make the process of buying, selling, or owning a home efficient, enjoyable and rewarding for you. See what my clients have said about my real estate services... *Comments: Laurie was enthusiastic and supportive through the whole process. I would highly recommend her! JAC - Stillwater *Comments: My wife and I recently purchased our home with Laurie Stephenson. This purchase was difficult because we were buying a home from 3000 miles away. Laurie worked with us for several months prior to the purchase. Then, when my wife and I arrived to look at homes, she helped us get right down to business. Laurie's knowledge and expertise pertaining to the Saratoga community allowed my wife and I to find a house that was honestly, the exact home we were looking for. Laurie took our situation, our hopes and dreams, and helped us put them into perspective and find the home that was just right for our family. Laurie's dedication to our family was invaluable throughout the entire process and continues on past the closing of our home. My family and I appreciate everything that Laurie has done for us. We got the luck of the draw with Laurie, and couldn't have asked for a better real estate agent and friend. Sincerely, Randal& Shanna Thorpe *Comments: One of the most refreshing qualities about Laurie is she goes to great lengths before even showing a house to make sure her clients are qualified and she understands exactly what there looking for. Her unique ability to understand people and listen is why she's so successful. She puts her client's best interest first and assures they can buy and afford the house for years to come. As a Mortgage Broker responsible to the banks and the clients we have a perfect record and many happy homeowners. Thank you Laurie!!! Jim Teele

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.