When is the Best Time to Buy a House?
When does it make sense to buy a new home? A lot depends on what is going on in your life. Did you just get married? Has your family outgrown your current home? Are you single and perhaps don’t need certain amenities? These are all important factors that steer the wheels of your home search. Consider these ideas as a kickstart to buying a new home and learn about the different items you should look for in your search.
For many Americans, purchasing a home is the largest purchase they’ll make in their lifetime. Other large purchases can cost tens of thousands, but are usually paid off in five years or less. However, houses are investments that tend to cost much more and are usually paid off in as many as 15 to 30 years.
Contrary to what many think, buying a home is not a purchase that can only be done later in life, or when one has a large family. Single, married, youthful and mature people from all walks of life can enjoy the benefits of owning a home because homes are investments. They retain value and can appreciate and build equity, whereas apartments are guaranteed to retain zero equity, and offer you no more than a never-ending payment with no ownership possibilities. When considering when to buy a house, yes, factors like the current market and time of year may play a role in your decisions. However, the biggest factor is your personal situation.
For Newly Married Couples or Growing Families
Many couples become first-time home buyers once children are added to the mix. Couples often fare well in their apartments in the early stages of marriage, but when their second or third child comes along and their one or two bedroom is no longer comfortable, it’s time to start looking for a larger home. A great time to purchase a home is when you foresee your family outgrowing your current living space. When looking for a home for your family, price is only one of the factors that you should look at. In addition to what you can afford, be sure that your new home has all of the features that you and your family need. Remember that just because a home may have three or four bedrooms and be in a safe neighborhood with great schools, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it is functional for your family. For example, if the home you’re looking at doesn’t have an open concept, it may be difficult for you to keep an eye on your little ones while you cook or do the dishes. Also, those three or four bedrooms may sound appealing, but if those much-needed bedrooms are in the basement, that doesn’t work if you have toddlers. Our homes are thoughtfully designed accommodating your needs, with functional living spaces, and insightfully designed features to ensure that your home is everything you need it to be.
Single
Many believe that if you’re single, there’s no need to buy a home of your own; after all, it’s just you, and you may not need the extra space. However, houses come in all shapes and sizes. In addition, buying a home is a long-term investment that far outweighs the low upfront costs of renting an apartment. Even if you end up eventually getting married and starting a family, owning your own home can give you a great head start. Financially, you’d have a home of your own that would have equity in it, and if you wish to find a different home once you get married and start a family, you will already have your down-payment for your new home through the equity of your current home. Between modern, functional floor plans, smart home technology, and options for every budget, your dream home may be just steps away.
When?
No matter if you’re single, married, or starting a family, the biggest factor that comes into play on when to buy a house is you and your personal situation. Buying a house is an amazing accomplishment, no matter what stage of life you’re in. As far as when the best time to buy a house is, aside from factors out of your control, such as the current market, and what is available, that's a decision that is left up to you. If you are buying your first home or setting up your next steps to buying a new home, Centex offers home designs for all of life’s stages.