Chapter 7
Housing: Comparing Renting and Buying
IN THIS CHAPTER
Comparing the pros and cons of renting versus owning
Assessing your finances before buying a home
Searching for the right home for you
Hiring a real-estate agent
Considering your mortgage options
Over the decades of your adult life, you need a place to live. Housing is important because you spend a lot of time in it, and its location affects your commute to work, your social life, and the convenience of recreation, shopping, restaurants, and other activities. And you spend plenty of money on housing, whether you rent or own it. Along with taxes, housing expenses are one of the top two expenses for most people.
This chapter explores your housing options and helps you understand the costs of buying and owning a home and compare that option to renting. If you decide to purchase a home, I walk you through the major elements of searching for and negotiating your best deal on a home for purchase.
The Ins and Outs of Renting ...
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