With my recent move I have come to several conclusions. For one, I remember why I don’t like renting. Although what I am currently paying per month is low-what am I really paying for? A place which will never be mine. Sure I can decorate, I can plant flowers in the yard, (with permission), I can do a little landscaping, (again, with permission), but I will never truly be able to enjoy what homeowners enjoy-the knowledge that I worked hard to purchase a house and land.

Investing in real estate is not something for those who are afraid to take chances. Whether you’re investing for your own, personal use, or, as a means to make money, you need to make sure you have researched the property, the resell value and the overall market in the area. For example, let’s say you wanted to invest in Asheville real estate-Asheville, North Carolina that is, and you know very little about the area. Research is the key. Asheville is probably one of the best places to invest, however you still need to do a little work when it comes to learning the ins and outs of the area. Do your homework, compare mortgage rates, find the right property or house and determine if your money would be well invested.

For me, living in West Virginia really doesn’t give me many options. The housing market here is slow- and surprisingly expensive compared to larger cities. I would love to buy a house, but I know I can’t afford it. Some may laugh when I say I would buy a modular home, (not necessarily a trailer, most modular homes are pre-built, manufactured homes), before I would buy a house. I know the value goes down-but not by much, especially if you own land. I could buy a modular/manufactured home now, paying $5000 down, (I own land, which makes it easier), and pay as much or a little more than what I am paying now on rent. What is the best solution? Continue renting? Or, save for the down-payment and purchase something which would be mine?