"If you’re looking to buy a home in 2020, have you thought about putting your tax refund toward a down payment?"
If you’re looking to buy a home in 2020, have you thought about putting your tax refund toward a down payment? Homeownership may be one step closer than you think if you spend your dollars wisely this year.
Based on data released by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Americans can expect an estimated average refund of $2,962 when filing their taxes this year.
The map below shows the average tax refund Americans received last year by state:
According to programs from the Federal Housing Authority, Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae, many first-time buyers can purchase a home with as little as 3% down. Truth be told, a 20% down payment is not always required to buy a home, even though that’s a common misconception about homebuying. Veterans Affairs Loans allow many veterans to purchase a home with 0% down.
How can my tax refund help?
If you’re a first-time buyer, your tax refund may cover more of a down payment than you ever thought possible.
If you take into account the median home sale price by state, the map below shows the percentage of a 3% down payment that’s covered by the average tax refund:
The darker the blue, the closer your tax refund gets you to homeownership in one of these programs. Maybe this is the year to plan ahead and put your tax refund toward a down payment on a home.
Bottom Line
Saving for a down payment can seem like a daunting task, but the more you know about what’s required, the more prepared you’ll be to make the best decision for you and your family. This tax season, your refund could be your key to homeownership.
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
More Homes, Better Prices: A Buyer’s Summer
Sellers are reading market conditions and are pricing accordingly from the start rather than listing high and cutting later, and buyers are taking note and making bids.
The “Take It or Leave It” Attitude Is Fading from the Market – What That Means for You
That’s why whether you’re buying or selling today, there are two terms you’ll hear a lot: concession and incentive.
What Buying or Selling a Home Gives Back to Your Community
Want to know what a move would mean where you live? A local agent can show you the figure close to home.
The 1 Factor That Explains Everything Happening with Home Prices Right Now
The national average of 1.7% price growth is accurate, but it’s an average of two very different stories happening at the same time – the few areas experiencing mild declines and the overwhelming majority that are still seeing prices rise.
That House That’s Been Sitting Could Be Your Best Shot at a Deal
A local agent has the context to tell which homes are the real opportunities and which are skippable.
Could Moving a Bit Further Out Change Everything About Your Budget?
Every market has more affordable pockets that most buyers never think to explore. A great local real estate agent knows exactly where those places are.