Actually it depends on a number of things.  Some indications that you should purchase now would include the following:

· Your employment and income are secure
· Presently you don’t have a lot of debt
· Your credit score is 700 or better  (A lender can check this for you)
· Have a realistic budget to balance livability and profitability
· Realize that you are buying a home first and an investment second
· Have a pre-approval letter from a lender  (Know what you can afford)
· Have clear goals to keep you from getting carried away with emotional factors
· Understand the buying process and budget for transaction costs

Currently prices are realistic and interest rates are at a historically low rate.  Today’s rates have not been around since 1956.  However, if you can’t meet all of the above-mentioned items, don’t try to buy a home at the present time. 

Today banks are very selective when granting new mortgages.  Low credit ratings mean that buyers won’t qualify for the best available interest rates and fees, or may not qualify at all.  First-time buyers should check their credit scores and fix any problems before applying for financing.

Buying a home is a big investment and a big decision, but you don’t have to go it alone.  Remember, at each step of the way, there are people and resources to help you.  Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call Don Kingsley Real Estate (363-5464) and ask to speak to one of our full time, professional REALTORS®.  In addition, use the Internet, check with friends that have recently purchased a home, mortgage lenders, and insurers and ask questions.  Mortgage lenders will provide you with a pre-approval letter and can also provide what is called a Good Faith Estimate of your closing costs.

We would be glad to mail to you, at no cost:
· An office generated History of Interest Rates from 1956 to date,
· A list of lenders that we work with and their mortgage representative’s name and/or
· A sample Good Faith Estimate. 

Drop us a note at 248 Main Street, Oneida, NY 13421, call us at 363-5464 or e-mail me at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com and we will share our over 100 years of combined real estate experience to assist you with your home buying decision.

Real estate professionals are very often faced with a question from buyers that has nothing to do with houses: “What are the best schools in the area to which we’re moving?”  When you relocate, the most important thing you’ll be moving is your child, and you want to be certain you are making the right choice for education.

One excellent resource for beginning your research is SchoolMatters.com, an online database of public schools.  Begin with statistics that illustrate students’ achievement levels in each school.  Compare reports for all students, including minorities and children in low-income families.  Schools in which all students perform well are providing balanced educational opportunities.

Also pay attention to extra-curricular activities offered, particularly if your child is interested in sports and other pursuits outside the classroom.  The School Matters database offers ratings and reviews directly from the parents, so you can learn from those with experience.

One thing you can’t determine online, however, is the actual classroom environment, so you should absolutely schedule a visit to one or more schools in the area before making your decision.  Meet with the principal and watch the manner in which teachers and students interact.

Once you have an understanding of the distinctions between schools, your choice will become clear.  You wouldn’t buy the first home you see, and “shopping” for a school is no different!

If you are in need of real estate guidance, please feel free to contact me.  I will be happy to share my knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.  If you prefer, email me at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com.