As we enter 2024, inflation is improving while home prices remain high, if you are planning on buying a home in 2024 here are 5 key steps to take to get ready.
1. Put Savings In A High-Yield Account
If you are planning on buying you will need your money to be “liquid” or relatively easy to access for a down payment.
2. Check Your Credit
You may have heard this before but it’s important, so we’ll say it again. Review your credit report to make sure there are not any errors or attempts at identity theft that can erroneously lower your credit score.
3. Down Payment or Closing Costs Assistance
It’s a good idea to check to see if you qualify for down payment or closing cost assistance or grants.
4. Monitor Your Market Real estate is local as they say so keep an eye on the areas you are looking to buy to see if there are trends in prices and inventory
5. Get Preapproved!
You can fill out our approval qualifier on our website and we’ll help you see how much you can qualify for and pre-approval, this will help you to know you’re buying range.

As we usher in the new year, we want to extend our warmest wishes to you and your family. May this year bring new happiness, new goals, new achievements, and a lot of new inspirations to your life. Remember, a new year means new beginnings, new adventures, and thankfully, new homes! We’re excited to be a part of your journey, whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or simply exploring your options. Happy New Year from all of us! Here’s to a prosperous and joyful 2024! 🎉

As 2023 comes to end its a good idea to do a year end financial checkup.
1. Review your budget and savings plan
Analyze your spending and saving for the year. Your savings might not have gone to plan this year and that’s ok – focus on replenishing your emergency fund first if needed and recalibrate plan for 2023 if needed.
2. Maximize Retirement Plan Contributions
If you participate in a 401k make sure you maximize contributions before the December 31 deadline, you have until April for Roth contributions
3. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Check your insurance coverage in many parts of the country housing prices went up, make sure you home is covered under current market prices. Also check your liability coverage and consider getting an umbrella liability policy that covers all your assets, you can get a million dollar policy for a few hundred dollars a year!
4. Health Savings Account
Make sure you contribute to your health savings account (if needed) as there are great tax benefits. Also check to see if you need to reimburse yourself from the account for out of pocket payments you made during the year!
5. Charitable Contributions
Finally remember to give if you can! Even if you don’t itemize your returns you can still deduct up to $300 for charitable contributions!

As 2023 comes to end its a good idea to do a year end financial checkup.
1. Review your budget and savings plan Analyze your spending and saving for the year. Your savings might not have gone to plan this year and that’s ok – focus on replenishing your emergency fund first if needed and recalibrate plan for 2023 if needed.
2. Maximize Retirement Plan Contributions If you participate in a 401k make sure you maximize contributions before the December 31 deadline, you have until April for Roth contributions
3. Review Your Insurance Coverage Check your insurance coverage in many parts of the country housing prices went up, make sure you home is covered under current market prices. Also check your liability coverage and consider getting an umbrella liability policy that covers all your assets, you can get a million dollar policy for a few hundred dollars a year!
4. Health Savings Account Make sure you contribute to your health savings account (if needed) as there are great tax benefits. Also check to see if you need to reimburse yourself from the account for out of pocket payments you made during the year!
5. Charitable Contributions Finally remember to give if you can! Even if you don’t itemize your returns you can still deduct up to $300 for charitable contributions!

A lot of homeowners that are thinking about moving have an option with their home: rent it out or sell it? What to do hinges on various factors, including one’s financial situation and local market conditions. Let’s explore the key aspects to consider, including the financial implications of both options.

Deciding Between Selling and Renting Out Your Home:
A home is often the largest financial asset for many people, making the decision of what to do with it a significant one. Selling your home offers a substantial cash windfall, while renting it provides a steady monthly income. Renting also allows you to continue building equity if property values rise. Consider your personal circumstances to determine the best choice.

When Selling is the Best Option:

Need Cash for Next Home Purchase: If buying a new home depends on the cash from selling your current one, selling is your best option. This approach allows you to apply the proceeds towards a new down payment.
Not Interested in Landlord Responsibilities: Managing a rental property requires time and effort. If you’re not prepared for the responsibilities of being a landlord, such as maintenance and tenant management, selling might be preferable.
Potential for Significant Profit: With property values increasing nationwide, selling your home could result in substantial profit. Analyze your local real estate market to gauge potential gains.
Eligibility for Capital Gains Tax Exemptions: If your home was your primary residence for at least two of the past five years, you may qualify for significant capital gains tax exemptions, making selling financially advantageous.
When Renting Out is a Better Choice:

Temporary Relocation: If you’re moving temporarily and plan to return, renting out your home can be more cost-effective than selling and later buying another property.
Desire for Rental Income: Extra income from renting can be appealing, but remember, if you’re buying another home, lenders will consider your rental income when assessing your mortgage eligibility.
High Rental Demand: If your home is in a sought-after location, renting can be a smart move. Evaluate the rental market in your area to ensure finding tenants is feasible.
Expectation of Property Value Increase: If you anticipate an increase in your home’s value in the near future, renting now and selling later could maximize your profits.
Cost Considerations in Renting vs. Selling:

Costs of Renting Out: These include mortgage payments, maintenance, finding tenants, potential vacancies, property management fees, HOA fees, and landlord insurance.
Costs of Selling: Preparing your home for sale, real estate commissions, closing fees, home staging, and paying off your mortgage are some of the expenses involved in selling.
Economic Downturn Considerations:
With potential recessions, assess your job stability and financial resilience. If you’re unsure about managing two mortgages or dealing with reduced rental income, selling might be the safer option.

Bottom Line:
Choosing between renting and selling your home requires a thorough evaluation of your financial status, lifestyle, and the local housing market. Weigh the costs of both options, consider your future plans, and your willingness to take on landlord responsibilities before making a decision. Of course schedule a free consult on our website and we can let you know how your specific situation looks when we crunch the numbers.