4 points to ponder when buying a home PLUS –
5 tips for a healthy heart SOME KEY HOME BUYING CONSIDERATIONS
Deciding to buy a home – and then choosing what type of home to buy and where – are not simply financial determinations, like picking a mutual fund to invest in. Home buying decisions can be heavily influenced by values, priorities and concerns that aren't primarily about money. Here are four factors beyond the financial arena that can enter into a home buying decision.
1. Family. There's no question that owning your home gives children a sense of stability about home, school and the wider community they live in. Family legacy can also be a consideration. Many people eventually own their home free and clear, giving them the option of passing it on to their children. Parents even buy homes as gifts for children.
2. Comfort. Owning your own home lets you customize your comfort to your own personal preferences. You can pick a location based on the noise level and on how close you like to be to your neighbors. Comfort concerns often drive people to buy rather than rent, since it's often hard to find rental homes that are large enough or in the right area.
3. Control. Owning a home gives you control over your future. You have the certainty of knowing what your housing costs are going to be for a very long period of time. Additionally, ownership gives you the power to stay put for as long as you want without having your plans change suddenly because your landlord decides to move in or sell the place.
4. Career. For many people, a large part of the home buying decision is based on the home's location in relation to their work. With the rise in telecommuting, more people today also need a home that will accommodate a well-organized office. What's still the #1 cause of death in the U.S.? It is coronary heart disease according to the American Heart Association.
But to lower your chances of getting heart disease, there are a number of risk factors, which are completely in your control. The American Heart Association suggests a few strategies that can greatly reduce your risk.
1. Eat Well. Healthy eating habits help you control your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy weight. How to do it? Eat nutrient-rich foods packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber and low in calories. Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole-grain and high-fiber foods, fish, lean protein and fat-free or low-fat dairy products.
2. Cut the cholesterol. Pay special attention to your intake of saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Fat can lodge in arteries, triggering a heart attack or stroke.
3. Get Moving. Being physically active helps keep your blood pressure, cholesterol and weight under control. Try to get to a level where you're doing 30 minutes of activity 5 days a week. Do 10-15 minutes to start and gradually increase your time. Walking is terrific exercise.
4. Watch Your Weight. Forget the fad diets and "miracle" weight-loss pills. To lose weight that will stay off, focus on three things: - Good nutrition: Foods with more vitamins and fiber and less saturated and no trans fats
- Cutting calories: Hey, even the right foods can be bad for you if you consume too much
- Staying active: 30 minutes or more, at least 5 days a week
5. Stop Stress, Limit Alcohol. Eliminate sources of stress or find ways to deal with them calmly and with confidence. Curb your consumption of alcohol. Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise or diet program. Would you like to know more about home financing, the housing market in your area or do you have any other related questions? Please call or email us – we're always here to help.... Have a great day!
P.S. There are more and more reports that say the housing market appears to be turning around in many places. Mortgage rates remain near record lows and home prices are very affordable. So this could be a great time to upsize, downsize or refinance. Please call or email us now to discuss your situation. |
