The modern consumer is stereotyped as buying whatever is cheapest. Of course, you get what you pay for, but there appears to be little concern for that in the mad rush for instant gratification- buying as much as you can with the cash and credit you have available. Only the sticker price matters.
Now, I’m not too keen on that when I buy anything, and I’m especially none too keen on it when it comes to buying houses. Take two houses side by side, one brick and one with vinyl siding. Otherwise they’re the same house. Guess what, the brick one is worth more- maybe 5 or $10,000 more. Now, that may be simplistic, but when one goes house shopping, it’s important to do a cost/benefit analysis to determine just what is the best deal for you. (And guess what, it’s not always the cheapest.)
You know, a big plus of being a homeowner is that it makes sense to make long-term investments in your home. I mean, what tenant is going to plop down $4000 for granite countertops? Right, none. But many a homeowner will take that step because they’re going to be there a long enough so they can recoup their investment- either in enjoyment or resale value, or both.
When it comes time to buy a house- do not a Wal-Mart shopper be! Be a value shopper!
