5 Ways to Invest in a Home

Program Description
Despite losses and foreclosures due to sloppy mortgage lenders signing up sub-prime home buyers, home ownership remains one of the best lifetime investments anyone can make. See what improvements in a
principle residence can both better serve your needs and add value to the property.

Actions:
1. If at all possible, purchase rather than rent, no matter how long
you expect to stay in an area.

2. Check out tax breaks for "green" improvements to your home.

3. Locations near water or in a good school district will accrue in value.

4. Pick a lesser-valued home in a better location rather than a nicer
home in a poorer neighborhood.

5. Cosmetics count: Keep new paint and a clean overall look to the home.