Is purchasing a home in today's market a wise investment?

Not sure whether Real Estate is a good investment for you?  Here are some interesting facts from the National Association of Realtors that you will want to consider:

"Over the past 30 years, the median price of existing homes has increased an average of more than 6 percent every year, and home values nearly double every 10 years, according to historical data from NAR’s existing home-sales series. Thanks to the power of leverage, a homeowner’s return on investment is even more impressive over time.

 For example, over 10 years, a $10,000 investment in the stock market at a normal 10 percent market rate of return would yield $23,600. The same investment as a down payment on a $200,000 home at a normal appreciation rate of 5 percent would return nearly 5 times the stock market return, at $110,300.

“Home Values” demonstrates the long-term value of housing as an investment, and encourages buyers who are on the fence about making a home purchase to contact a REALTOR® who can help them make a smart investment in their future."

"A wealth of housing data clearly demonstrates that housing is a good long-term investment. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 60 percent of a homeowner’s wealth is from the equity they have built in their home. A Federal Reserve study has shown that the average homeowner’s net worth is 46 times the net worth of the average renter.

“Building Wealth” emphasizes the importance of homeownership in creating long-term wealth, and encourages buyers who are on the fence about making a home purchase to contact a REALTOR® who can help them make a smart investment in their future."