-what do you own?
-how much was the total cost and how much did location come into play?
-do you pay any taxes on it?
1) A 3 bedroom house.
2) Total was $300k and we wanted to live in the city, but a house there is like $2-3 Mill. We also thought about a condo but for a 3 bedroom and it being in a somewhat decent area, it would of ended up costing around $500k. Also on top of the normal bills there are also condo fees each month, buying a parking spot, etc.
3) Taxes are about $4k a year.
Tips when looking for a home. The older houses need more work usually, but it is very hard to find bigger lots on new homes today. So the demand goes up on homes that arn't being built that size anymore.
First time buyer? Special tax credits if this is your first home.
Currently low interest rates. We currently pay $1400 a month on our mortgage, almost half of which goes back into our home and half interest. Compared to renting, which is 100% interest.
It is a bit scary owning a home, but at the same time security in knowing that something will be bought and paid off for in retirement. Even if we only pay off half the house, it will be savings put a way.