Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make. If you’re feeling the itch to settle down, here are five signs that you might be ready to take the leap into homeownership.
1. You’re tired of paying rent
Renting can make sense for a while – especially if you’re still building savings or enjoying the flexibility of moving around. But at what point do you start investing in a home of your own?
When you own a home, your monthly mortgage payments help build equity that you can eventually borrow against to help fund other goals, like renovations or retirement. Of course, owning means taking on more responsibility. If your roof leaks or your water heater breaks, there’s no landlord to call. But knowing you're investing in your own future often makes it worth it.
2. You’re starting a family
Whether you’re having a kid, adopting a pet, or just wanting more space, buying a home can offer stability and flexibility.
When searching for the right home for your family, ask yourself these important questions:
Will you be comfortable there in five years? Find a home that meets your long-term needs. A private kitchen and living room may be your preference, but an open floor plan may be a better investment as your kids grow. Stairs or a steep driveway may be fine until you have kids and groceries to carry.
How’s the yard? Fencing could lower your homeowners insurance rate. Keeping up a yard and a fence, however, may take time and money. And if you have an energetic pup, you may want to patch any holes in your fence during the pet-proofing process.
How are the schools? Do your research and learn more about the quality of the schools in your prospective neighborhood. Check the cost and availability of preschools and early learning centers. Make sure crosswalks are safe and, if possible, avoid moving near heavily trafficked streets your kids might eventually have to navigate.
What’s your new neighborhood like? Busy roadways are not ideal when you have children. Visit your home’s neighborhood during morning commute hours and at night. Talk to neighbors. Get a feel for the neighborhood and make sure it's an ideal place for strollers, jogs, and evening bike rides.
3. You want to put down roots
If you’re ready to feel part of a neighborhood and make a space your own, buying a home might be the next step. Homeownership gives you the chance to personalize your space and invest in a local community you care about. Over time, your home becomes more than a place to live – it becomes part of your story.
4. You’ve saved enough for a down payment
Many first-time buyers find saving for a down payment a major hurdle. The standard for a conventional home loan is 20%. - that’s $60,000 on a $300,000 home. The good news? There are plenty of options if you’re still building your savings.
Homebuyers with decent credit may qualify for a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan, which requires a minimum of 3.5% down and a credit score over 580. Consider all your options and speak with a financial advisor or lender who can help you review your options.
5. You have a stable source of income
A reliable income is key to confident homebuying and long-term homeownership. Lenders typically look for a debt-to-income ratio (DTI) lower than 43%. This means that your total monthly debts, including your mortgage, shouldn’t exceed 43% of your gross income. If yours is higher, you may not be eligible for a qualified mortgage.
Homeownership isn’t just about buying your dream home – it's about building security, stability, and a future that’s truly yours. If your finances are in good shape, you’ve found a community you love, and you’re ready to take on the responsibilities that come with owning a home; you’re on the right track.
At Hippo, we know that homeownership is more than just finding the perfect property—it’s about protecting it for years to come. That’s why we offer modern home insurance options that help homeowners stay ahead of potential risks. Explore how Hippo can help safeguard your dream home with smarter protection designed for today’s homeowners.
