Purchasing a home that is outside the scope of your financial means may put you in a position that makes it difficult to achieve your desired level of happiness from your own home. Most of the time, I believe that the most satisfied homebuyer is one who can afford a house that meets most of his or her needs and requirements/priorities/etc., while still being able to afford it. What kind of house can you afford to buy?? If you’re like most people, you’ve never given much thought to this question before making a purchase of this magnitude. That being said, the purpose of this article will be an attempt to mnemonically summarise and discuss what this means and represents as well as why it matters.
Assets, attention, and assumptions: First, go through your current assets and determine how much you need to comfortably maintain your perceived nest – egg in order to get the ball rolling. When taking all of this into account, it’s important to keep in mind not only one’s housing needs and expenses, but also how much one can actually afford. Make sure that your assumptions are in line with your true needs, and that your personal comfort zone is in line with those needs!
- Money:. Make sure you’re looking at the big picture when it comes to your finances! One cannot fully appreciate one’s residence unless and until one examines one’s finances and determines what is currently possible for one’s current situation and, possibly, for one’s future potential.
What is the long-term goal of this purchase? Considering it as a starter home or a long-term solution to your family’s housing requirements and wishes, what are your intentions with it? It’s up to you to make a decision based on this and what the future holds.
Options, possibilities, and organisation: When it comes to your financial situation, personal comfort zone, commute time to work, safety, etc., what are your options? A house’s bones, region, area, neighbourhood, and/or lot – including its size and safety/educational system – often present opportunities. If/when you conduct your search in an organised manner, it will be more effective and focused!
Realistic revenue; reasons; location: No matter what type of home you choose, you must decide whether or not you prefer to live in a single-family residence or a multi-family dwelling. How much money do you think you’ll make if you do this? Are you taking a realistic approach, and are your reasons for doing so, in your own best interests? In terms of location, is there any wiggle room?
The best path for you may be found by going beyond the obvious and delving deep into what’s in your best interests, etc.
You will benefit if you have a firm grasp on your financial situation and are confident in your ability to meet your financial obligations. Are you prepared to move forward with caution?