Thinking About Buying Now? Answer These Questions First.

We think now
is a great time to buy a home for first time and move up buyers alike. The
financial benefits for owning a home are many and well documented but research
tells us the most important reasons for buying are not financial.

So before
buying in today’s market ask yourself these questions.

Why am I buying a home in the first place?

• A
  good place to raise children and get them a good education

• A
  place where you and your family feel safe and secure

• More
  space for the family

• Control
  of your living space

• Other
  non-financial benefits

Where are home values headed?

A recent national survey of over 100 industry experts
indicates home values are expected to rise 4.3% this year with cumulative appreciation
of 28% by 2018. We forecast home values will rise in greater Lansing by the
historical norm of 3.8% with cumulative appreciation over 20%.

Where are mortgage interest rates
headed?

The Mortgage Bankers Association, the National Association of
Realtors, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac all expect interest rate to rise by
approximately one percentage point in the next twelve months. The cost of
waiting can add hundreds of dollars to monthly payments, thousands annually,
and tens of thousands over the life of the loan.

Only you can determine whether this is a good time for you to
buy a home but answering these questions may help you in your decision.