Thursday, September 21, 2006

TIme to buy a house?

So I'm moving to C-bus. Right now I'm in the highly exciteable phase of a major life transition. Luckily (?) I have around two months to simmer down before I do something stupid.

I brain is filling with a trillion questions. Should I buy? If so, what? 2 or three bedroom townhouse or a 3 bedroom house (easier to sell at the end)? Is this whole buying thing a stupid idea to begin with? Where will the housing market be in 2 years? What will happen to interest rates? What questions should I ask when I buy a house? Should I rent for a few months before buying to get a feel for the area or is that a waste of money? Should I rent out a couple rooms so that the cost of housing becomes a lot less?

John Choj mentioned renting a room to stay at for part of the week (Live with his parents and come down on days off). A former roommate of mine said he'd be interested in possibly coming out after he graduates this December. If both came out, I need three bedrooms. If one of them decided to leave though, I'd be stuck with an extra bedroom and more house payment. Then the question becomes could I easily fill it with another person (ie OSU college student?)

I'll have to figure out all this and more over the next two months. Either way, I know one thing. Columbus is going to be a freaking blast.

4 comments:

Sweatypie said...

Good questions. Depends where and when you will make your next move. In addtion, how does your company handle moves and house purchases. Your atleast moving to a good housing area.

Jeff said...

My vote is for 3 bedrooms, if you decide to buy. If you want, you'll be able to have a roommate, which will more than offset the cost of the extra space. Plus, the true cost to own will be less than the monthly payment because you'll get income tax refunds on the interest and property taxes, plus you'll be paying off principal each month. If you claim it as your primary residence for at least two years, any profits will be tax free. When you do sell, there are more potential buyers interested in 3 bedroom places than 2 BR, because anyone with kids will need the extra room.

Drew said...

...plus, you'll need the extra room for family visits when we come to experience the wonders of Columbus!

Libby said...

It's a buyer's market now, Jono. But anywho...

You're coming to Ohio! YAY!!! We'll have to arrange a 2am foursquare/trunk-riding appointment in some random parking lot between Cleveland and C-bus. (That's a catchy abbreviation...I like it.)

I'm so glad you got the job. Congratulations!!