Benefits Of Home Ownership

Pride of Ownership

Pride of ownership is the number one reason why Canadians desire their own home. There is no landlord looking over your shoulder. You are able to make improvements knowing that any appreciation that results will be to your benefit. Home ownership gives you and your family a sense of stability and security. It’s making an investment in your future.

Mortgage Equity

Each month, part of your monthly payment is applied to the principal balance of your loan, which builds your equity. You can borrow against a home’s equity for a variety of reasons such as home improvement, university or college expenses, or starting a new business. Why pay-off your landlord’s property when you could be paying off your own? Homeowners accumulate wealth for the future while enjoying the benefits of a shelter that they can use, improve and sell. Their home is a safe haven for investment.

Appreciation

In Canada, especially in the last few years, homes have appreciated considerably. This has added substantially to owners net worth. Unlike stocks and bonds, you get to live in your investment. Also, in Canada your principal residence is exempt from capital gains taxes.

Are You Ready?

First – do you have the financial resources? You should have five percent of the purchase price of a home for the down payment, but ideally even more. Are there other priorities in your life e.g. starting a new business, which require your savings? If not, buying a home should be on your radar.

Second – do you expect to stay in your new home for some time? Moving can be expensive and you will want to build some equity before having to relocate. Your job and home life should be stable.