Why It is a Good Time to Buy a Home

Not sure what areas to buy?   "When I represent a buyer who is relocating to Orange County or moving up from their current home, I ask them specific questions to analyze their needs.   There are good areas in Southern California that make buying a good investment as well as short sale and foreclosure opportunities.  A second thing I make sure they do is to get pre-qualified and pre-approved for a home loan.  I am surprised at how many real estate agents do not urge their clients to do this before they go out looking at homes," says Lisa Solomon, author of Put Your Money Where Your House Is; co-founder and real estate agent for Coastiera Properties.

"Today, I am seeing buyers and investors take advantage of this foreclosure and short sale market.  A short sale is a better alternative to foreclosure and creates a win-win for the buyer and lender," adds Solomon, "however, surprisingly there are so many real estate agents who get a home listed as a short sale with little or no experience.  There are important questions, you, the buyer or seller need to ask when being represented properly and ethically."

Most people buy homes to have control over where they live.  Although investment features are important, the psychological reasons for buying -- the satisfaction of owning and freedom from paying rent -- are at least as important. 

In a recent poll by Coastiera Properties, 76% of owners and 66% of renters considered pride of ownership an important reason for buying a home.  7 out of 10 owners report their dislike for paying rent.  While renting offers a lifestyle that is nearly maintenance free, consider that renting offers you no equity, not tax benefit, and no protection against regular rent increases.  Writing a check is just like watching your hard earned money sail away.

In the long run, investments in homes far outpace inflation.  Historically speaking, if you own your  home 7 to 10 years you are going to be okay, especially in Southern California.  Furthermore, property taxes and qualified home interests are deductible on your tax return.  Ask your CPA.

As a member of the Multiple Listing Service, Coastiera Properties in Orange County can show you any property.  If you should see an ad in the paper or a sign in a yard, call us to find out the information.  If you want to see it, we'd be happy to show it to you! 

For more information, please contact:

Coastiera Properties, Lisa Solomon

(949) 929-2099