When choosing a home, look for properties that have curb appeal and a good floor plan. Location matters most, not amenities. If you are budgeting, look past cosmetic flaws such as carpet color to find a better deal.

For resale and appreciation purposes, it is better to buy at the bottom half of the price range of the neighborhood rather than the top half.

Home ownership provides pride, security and a sense of belonging to the community.

There are also many financial benefits to home ownership. Owning a home is an investment that appreciates in value and provides federal income tax deductions. As the current market value of your property goes up, and through consistent monthly mortgage payments, your debt goes down. You then have a sort of forced savings plan called equity.

Your home also acts as an inflation hedge, and grows virtually tax free. If you occupy your home for at least two to five years, a single person may exclude up to $250,000 from capital gains tax. A married couple may exclude up to $500,000. There are very few other opportunities to grow that “moving money” virtually tax free!

Consider this your home buyer’s toolkit. Open it up, take a look around, and if you like, start equipping yourself with the tools necessary to make your best purchase. In most businesses, knowledge equals power, and real estate is certainly no exception.

I hope you enjoy the free reports I’ve provided, and I hope you learn a little more about what it takes to make your important purchase a great one.

The real estate market in Rapid City is certainly volatile, and all of the information about buying a home can be overwhelming. I can help.

When you're ready to act, contact me.

I fight on behalf of my buyers.
I negotiate the absolute best price.
I protect you.
I simplify your transaction for you as much as possible.

I look forward to working with you.

Thanks for stopping by,
Cheri