7 Reasons to Own Your Own Home

1. Tax breaks. The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, property taxes you pay, and some of the costs involved in buying your home.
2. Gains. Between 1998 and 2002, national home prices increased at an average of 5.4 percent annually. And while there’s no guarantee of appreciation, a 2001 study by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® found that a typical homeowner has approximately $50,000 of unrealized gain in a home.
3. Equity. Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.
4. Savings. Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax.
5. Predictability. Unlike rent, your mortgage payments don’t go up over the years so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will rise.
6. Freedom. The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and be able to benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home.
7. Stability. Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships, and offers your children the benefit of educational continuity.

To calculate whether renting or buying is the best financial option for you, use this calculator courtesy of Ginnie Mae: http://www.ginniemae.gov/ypth/rent_vs_buy/Rent_vs_buy.htm.

Van Buren Township Price: $30000 Gorgeous second floor ranch in Meadows. Pond outside door, one of the best settings. Kitchen with oak cabinets and all appliances stay. Neutral color throughout; separate laundry room, appliances included. Huge master bedroom has walk in closet. Nice deck. Building 20, Unit 4.

Dearborn Price: $1195 For Lease! Beautiful brick condo. Excellent curb appeal!! This end unit features an extra dining room window, open floor plan, oak cabinets in kitchen. Floors feature hardwood, carpet and tile. Cathedral ceilings. Very large bedrooms; master bedroom, with walk in closet a must see! Patio area great for relaxing or entertaining. Other features need to be seen to believe.