Many retirees decide to purchase a vacation home as their ideal place to rest and relax. A second home can be a gathering place for friends and family, and a supplement to your retirement income via future renting potential. Plus, any mortgage interest you pay is tax deductible as long as it’s a personal residence, meaning you occupy the home at least 14 days a year. Two weeks of vacation doesn’t sound so bad, does it? Renting comes with tax deductions and other benefits to consider as well. If you think a vacation home might be right for you, check out these home-buying tips.

Spend Some Time There

You’ll be using the property regardless of whether you choose to rent it out part of the year. It’s important that you actually get a true feel for the area. Consider visiting during every season, taking rental demands into consideration. Whether it’s peak season or off season, you’ll want to be sure your property has features that appeal to renters in order to help keep your home occupied and your rent paid. Since you don’t live there, you probably won’t be able to do the work yourself. Instead, you’ll need to hire a pro.

Caring for the Property

Renovations and upgrades can be difficult to manage from afar, so building a good relationship with your contractor helps. Just remember to communicate your desires and budget effectively, and be prepared to compromise. In the end, the job will be done to professional standards and you may even save money.

Budget Properly

It’s no surprise that homes come at a price. When you factor in beautiful weather, proximity to large cities or nature’s beauty, you can have high potential for rentals. You’ll find that it all pays off in the long-run. Of course, you still need to budget carefully. Find a real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can be honest with you about price histories and resale potential. You’ll need to factor in costs such as maintenance, insurance, and a second mortgage. Additionally, if the location of the home is a good distance away, you’ll need to budget money for gas or plane tickets.

Plan for Away Time

A vacation home is a second home, so you won’t always be living there. Unfortunately, your home doesn’t go into a protective bubble when you are away, so you’ll need to make plans for upkeep. If your home is a condominium, you can usually count on the maintenance being provided. If not, then it’s up to you to take care of repairs. This upkeep includes yard work, interior cleaning, and general home maintenance. You’ll also need the right tools and equipment as well as a place to store everything when it’s not in use. Many people turn to storage sheds so extra equipment is not an eyesore for renters.

If time is a factor, the alternative is to have someone else tackle the upkeep. A property management firm can provide weekly visits, maintenance, repairs, housekeeping (for renters), security checks, and overall peace of mind. You need a point of contact in order to remain informed on what is happening to your home so that it is a positive in your life rather than a source of stress. In addition to a professional, get to know the neighbors so that you have an extra layer of security. They can let you know about any issues, including suspicious activity or a rambunctious renter.

Retirement is the perfect time to start thinking about buying a vacation home. A home away from home can be the perfect escape for you, as well as a way to earn some income on the side. Before you jump right in, spend some time there, take a fine-tooth comb to your finances, and determine how you’ll take care of your home when you can’t be there.

This article was provided by Jim McKinley, a former banker who uses his background and skills to provide advice and valuable resources to anyone who needs help with their financial literacy.

Money With Jim

Almost all adults in this country believe that home ownership is an important part of the American dream and that it increases financial stability. But many Americans think that owning a home is out of their reach. In truth, many perceived obstacles are simply misconceptions about what is required to purchase a home. After reviewing the list here, you may discover that you’re more prepared than you think.

“Renting is always cheaper than buying a home”
Renting may be your best choice if you plan to move frequently. It usually takes up to seven years of home ownership to offset the cost of renting. However, if you plan to stay in your home for a longer period of time, buying is likely the better financial choice. Assuming that your home appreciates in value, you should realize a good profit when you finally decide to sell. Also, you can have a fixed-rate mortgage that won’t change instead of facing the risk of a surprise price hike in a monthly rental fee.

“You need to have 20% for the down payment”
The average American thinks they must have between 17% and 21% of the purchase price for a down payment. While 20% is the industry standard, many people with high credit scores are approved for a mortgage loan that requires much less down. Discuss with your lender what is possible in your case. Loan programs through the VA, FHA and USDA all have low down payment programs if you qualify.

“Once you’re pre-qualified you’re guaranteed the loan”
Although pre-qualification is not the same as pre-approval, it does give you a chance to see what loan amount you should expect from your lender. This is helpful when you are house hunting and need to know how high an offer you can make. However, pre-qualification usually does not include a credit report analysis, so you may still be denied a loan. Pre-approval for a loan amount is better that pre-qualification.

“30-year fixed-rate mortgages are the best option”
A traditional fixed-rate mortgage is likely the best choice for buyers who intend to stay in their home for many years. However, an adjustable rate mortgage may be a better choice for those who know they will move within a few years. Additionally, there are shorter fixed rate mortgages that will have a higher monthly payment, but will save a lot in interest charges. This may be a good choice for buyers expecting to retire soon. Look at all options. A traditional 30-year loan may not be your best choice.

“Mortgages are the same with every lender”
All lenders offer a variety of products, interest rates and fees for mortgage loans. Not all lenders are right for every customer, so be careful to choose one that fits your needs. The lender with the lowest interest rate may not be best because they may be new to the business or have a reputation for instability. You want a company that you can trust to deliver the mortgage package they promised and provide consistent service. As always, you should be able to turn to your real estate agent for advice. They quite likely have a mortgage company that they work with regularly who they depend upon to give their clients good deals and excellent service.

Your home is more than just a roof over your head. Homeownership has long been a big part of the American Dream. A great majority of people in this country believe that owning their own home is either essential or important to achieving a feeling of success and prosperity. Of course, there are many financial benefits to homeownership. But having a permanent place to raise a family, to establish your own traditions, to host gatherings, and to plan for the future are also real benefits of owning.

Your life becomes more stable once you own a home. Unless you choose to move again, you shouldn’t be forced to do it. Moving is hard, aggravating, and definitely expensive. Many renters who find themselves moving from one rental to another know what a hassle it can be. With your own home, you can make long-term plans.

Owning means you can suit your own tastes, not follow rules set by a landlord. Whether you want to decorate in a modern style, rustic, or shabby chic, the choice is yours. You can tear out the hedge or plant a tree. Choose paint colors or wallpaper. Bring in any size pet that you like. Tear down walls or gut the kitchen for a complete remodel. Now you are the landlord, so you get to make the decisions.

You may sleep better and enjoy your leisure time more.  You may even be a better cook when you become a homeowner. Well, those improvements may not exactly be the ones that you notice. But studies and reports found on the National Association of REALTORS^® (NAR) website make some rather wonderful claims about the benefits realized with homeownership. These include:

• Improved mental and physical health:  Studies show that homeowners and their children are generally happier and healthier than renters. Many factors play a part, such as a strengthened sense of privacy. People also feel more secure knowing that a landlord cannot ask you to move or demand a significantly higher monthly rent payment.
• More engagement within your community:  Homeownership gives you a chance to put down roots within your new neighborhood and town. You can build strong relationships with new friends and neighbors, teachers at the local schools, and shop keepers. You may also find more desire for volunteer opportunities. The support system you will build makes life easier and more pleasant.
• Higher educational achievement by your children: NAR studies show that children of homeowners are significantly more likely to achieve a higher level of education. An increase in their future earning potential follows. This holds true in both high income and low income neighborhoods.

These results may be due to a better sense of control and self-worth that homeowners enjoy versus renters. It’s human nature to yearn deeply to have our own turf. Although the results may be difficult to measure, the desire to own a home and to build a better future surely push people to want to want to achieve more. You and your family will have to discover the particular benefits that owning brings you. One fact is obvious: homeownership matters.

Moving to a new home is a daunting task and finding a reputable, reliable moving company is at the top of the headache list. There are important steps to take to make sure you hire a company that will be priced right, perform their task on time, and take excellent care of your belongings.

Get referrals from people you trust.
Choosing your mover based on recommendations from people you know is almost always a safe bet. No one is going to give a nod to a company that gave them poor service or caused damage to their possessions. Think of anyone you know who moved recently. Send out an email to friends, family and coworkers. Your real estate agent should be an excellent source as well. There are plenty of companies to hire, but you must be vigilant to find a good one.

Do some research.
Moving scams can happen, so approach this project with attention to detail. Once you have a list of potential companies, do some preliminary research on them. You are looking for a professional moving company, not just a bunch of guys who move people as an extra job. Check online customer reviews of each company’s reputation and how long they’ve been in business. Social media sites such as Yelp and Citysearch are helpful. Another good resource is the American Moving and Storage Association. See if the company has accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. For moves from one state to another, the company should have a unique USDOT number. This is a license issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation. For moves within the state, they need a state license.

Schedule meetings with company estimators.
After your research, you should end up with at least three trustworthy, professional companies to call for in-home estimates. Don’t accept a bid over the phone. If a company tells you they can give you an accurate estimate with an email or phone call, move on to the next name on your list. Find movers that will send a representative to your home and give you an estimate after they take a look at your belongings. Make sure the estimator sees everything you plan to take, including the contents of your attic, basement, closets and garage. Discuss the cost of moving specialty items, such as antiques, pianos, or pool tables. Let the estimator know of any complicating circumstances at the destination of the move. For example, will it be difficult to find a place to park the moving van? Are there multiple flights of stairs or an elevator? The estimator needs all your information to give you an accurate bid.

Compare the estimates.
Find out exactly what each estimate includes. Are fuel charges extra? Will you get a better rate depending on the day of the week you choose for your move? Find out if the estimate is binding or nonbinding. You want a binding estimate or a binding not-to-exceed estimate. Make sure the mover’s signature and date is clear on the bottom of the estimate. If yours in an in-state move that doesn’t require a binding estimate, you should still have a written estimate of the hourly rate and any other costs you may incur. Ask questions and, if you need to make any changes, get the revised contract in writing from the company.

Negotiate for the best price.
You should feel free to negotiate if the mover you like best seems too expensive for you. Mention that you have competitive bids from other companies and find out if they are willing to come down in price. Be cautious: if one of your companies gives you a low price that seem too good to be true, it probably is. A low-ball estimate can be a ploy to get your business, but the movers may then hold your possessions hostage unless you pay a higher price in the end.

Make sure you’re insured.
Unless the company does the packing, they may not cover any breakage that happens in transit. Check to see if your homeowners or renters insurance covers your belongings during a move. If not, you might choose to invest in supplemental moving insurance.

Take care of moving day details.
On moving day, you should get a copy of the mover’s inventory when they have the truck loaded. Give them detailed directions to your new home and get a phone number where you can reach the crew during the move. The movers will issue you a bill of lading, which will specify minimum and maximum amounts to pay, dates, company contact information and other details. Make sure you are satisfied with the price, the moving company’s liability, delivery date and all other information in the contract. Keep your copy of the contract, the bill of lading and the inventory sheet accessible until the move is complete.

You may be tempted to buy or sell a home without the help of a professional real estate agent. However, you are risking time, money and aggravation without an agent’s skills to help you move through all the stages of a real estate transaction. Your agent’s knowledge is valuable in all cases, but especially if you should hit a snag. At least one in every five home sales encounters a problem that can delay or cancel the deal. Whether it’s handling inspections, documents, pricing or marketing, you need a professional’s help if you want the best results.

All experienced home owners know that the purchase isn’t simply two parties reaching an easy agreement, signing papers and calling the movers. There is a bewildering amount of paperwork involved and real estate regulations can change from state to state. You need to know the requirements of the homes association if there is one. Your agent will coordinate closing dates, the contract, title issues, deposits and the list goes on.

Currently much of the country is experiencing a seller’s market with multiple offers coming in for many properties. Having a seasoned agent on your side will help you compete against other buyers. Agents have an established network that will give you a first look at the kinds of homes and neighborhoods you want to consider. Negotiations are critical and your agent can manage them for you without emotions getting in the way. On the seller’s side, it can be hurtful to have buyers nitpick features of the home you love. Your agent can handle the criticism for you and still keep an interested buyer from being scared away.

You will need many different people to get a house bought or sold: a trustworthy home inspector, an efficient lender, a good interior designer, a home stager or a handyman are all possibilities. Depend on your agent to have the connections to make credible recommendations.

Your seller’s agent will help you evaluate the curb appeal of your home and suggest minor repairs or renovations to help the sale. Their knowledge of the current market will help you set a price for your home to move it quickly and get you the most return on your investment. As a buyer, your agent will not only keep you apprised of the homes available, but will also provide insight about the neighborhood, schools, access to roads and transportation and other community amenities. Additionally, there is a huge list of behind-the-scenes services your agent will handle to keep your transaction on track. A few of these include verifying the property’s legal description and zoning, ordering a plat map, reviewing appraisals, calculating utility costs, entering the property into the multiple listings service database, scheduling inspections, tracking the loan process and coordinating all closing requirements.

You may only buy and sell homes a few times in your life, but your agent has signed off on hundreds of deals. If you are thinking of looking for your next home on your own or if you are considering for sale by owner, reconsider. Play it smart and utilize the skills of a talented agent, your invaluable partner for getting the best deal whether you are the buyer or the seller.