When it comes to long-term investments, what’s better than stocks and gold? It’s not a four-leaf clover, or rare first-edition comic book, but something much more valuable. It’s real estate, of course. And, it has been consistently rising in popularity as the best long-term investment for nearly a decade. If you’re wondering why, and how, you’re about to find out.
Okay, consider this: since 2011, savings accounts have gone up 9%, gold 18%, stocks 26% and real estate has gone up 41%! 41% – That’s 23% higher than gold.
We have probably all heard by now about rates rising, but there’s still a lot of good news that comes along with that. Since rates were so, so, extremely low during the pandemic, even a rise from those low rates means that rates are still low!
If you’re in the market to make a home purchase this year, and see how rates are going up, you can rest assured. According to a recent Gallup poll, the best long-term investment chosen by Americans is real estate. Even when inflation increases, as it’s doing now, most Americans agree that an investment like real estate really takes the cake. In fact, real estate has been sitting at the top of the list of best investments for the last eight years and it’s gaining more attention.
Why Is Real Estate a Great Investment During Times of High Inflation?
Because inflation is now reaching its highest levels in nearly 40 years, it’s super important to know what financial benefits are available to you through homeownership. Think of it like this: price increases can be seen across the board due to rising inflation, that includes goods, services, and living expenses. But, what if before more inflation took place, you could freeze current prices?
That’s the benefit that you get with homeownership. When you purchase a home, you get to lock in your monthly payments for most mortgage types, like a conventional, FHA, USDA or VA loan. This “lock” helps shield you from increasing house payments. Expenses like property taxes will increase with time, and other living costs may go up too, but your monthly housing payment will stay as-is; frozen in time., to the benefit of you, the homebuyer. When you rent, you don’t get that same benefit and you’re not shielded from rising housing costs that, in turn, cause rental prices to increase.
Another benefit …
If you’re already a homeowner, not only are you unaffected by inflation when it comes to your monthly mortgage payment, but when there are times of increasing inflation like now, your home value will actually increase. As prices go up, so does the value of your home. It keeps what is most likely the largest purchase of your life in a sweet and safe spot.
If you’re not a homeowner yet, but aspire to be one, or are looking to invest in more property, now is still a great time. Remember homeownership is a long-term investment, and this is one that will stay safe and gain value over time, making it a great place to invest your money.
The bottom line
If you’re looking for a strong and stable investment, housing is a great option, even when inflation is high. You’re protected from housing cost increases and own an asset that gains value with time. If you’d like more information on buying a home, Homespire can help with that.
This is not an offer for a loan or any type of extension. Eligibility for a loan or extension of credit from Homespire Mortgage Corporation is subject to completion of a loan application, credit, income, and employment qualification, and meeting established underwriting criteria. Rates are subject to change without notice based on market conditions. See Loan Consultant for information on program income limits, buyer contribution, area median income, debt requirements, and other application details.