Are you wanting to move up in size to accommodate your growing family or maybe downsize?​  You may be tired of paying high rents and are looking as a first time home buyer?

Knowing your needs are ​and what your five year plan is will determine whether you should purchase a home at this time.  For instance, are you planning to live in the same city for the next five years?   Using five years for an​example is a strategy  for buying your first home or moving up in home size.  Experts tell us it takes a few years to break even because during that time you are paying mostly interest.  

Buying a home comes with other costs too.  Transactions costs include repairs, property insurance and closing costs.  So it is also not just the monthly mortgage expense to consider but also utilities (electric, water & gas), garbage, internet,​ cable etc.​ The length of time​ you have lived in your home and,​ if you have been in it for a significant amount of time,​ the condition of your home is very important.

Keep in mind the specifics you desire in your next home like school zones neighborhoods, in a cul-de-sacs or homes with private back yards and homes away from the hustle and bustle of main thoroughfares sometimes are more desirable.