First, I would like to apologize for not being active with any blog posts recently... I have been busy these past few weeks with multiple work projects. More importantly, I was busy getting ready to marry my best friend and partner, Katie. We had our wedding this past weekend on Saturday, September 12th, and it could not have been a better day for us, our family, and our friends. Despite what many people advised us to do, we pushed forward and had the day. We made our best efforts to ensure our guests were safe. Katie and I could not be happier, especially since our two little dogs - Louie and Pixie - were able to stand by our side through our ceremony. Pictures of them to come! 
Due to Covid, we did not get to go on our originally planned honeymoon to Aruba. It has been a tough week to focus and be productive work wise, so I figured that I would try and at least get a blog post done. Since we just got married, why not write about something that affects many of us! Marriage and starting a new life together! Katie and I are lucky in that we already have a starter home to live in. But, many newlyweds are thinking - When is a good time to buy and start our new adventure together? In my opinion, it all depends on your situation. But, here a few things to keep in mind, which may help you out as begin to plan your new future.
The major question - Are you financially stable and ready? Do you have a sizable down payment to put towards a home? You can put down as little as 3% for conventional, however, it may be better long term to have a larger down payment (10%, 15%, 20%). With a larger down payment, your monthly payment will be lower, you'll pay less in interest over time, and you may even get a better interest rate. Also, how are you credit scores? Will your down payment wipe out your savings or do you have 3-6 months worth of expenses in case an emergency pops up? All important financial pieces to consider.
You're married now, but are you 100% sure that the area you are in is where you will want to be longer term? In general, it does not make sense to buy a home unless you plan to live in it for at least 2 years. Ideally, you will stay in a home at least 5 years to make the costs work out - realtor fees, title fees, transfer fees, closing costs, etc. So, unless you are fairly confident of the area you want to settle, it may not make sense to buy just yet.
Another important consideration is responsibility. Owning a home has more responsibility than renting! Since you are married, maybe you do not want the extra responsibility of maintaining your home - mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, cleaning, painting, etc. If you rent for a year or so after being married, you can enjoy that extra time to create more memories before kids come along! I can speak on the extra responsibility part. Katie and I are lucky to own our own home together. However, here we are 3 days after getting married and I was out mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and painting doors. All good stuff but it sure would have been a lot more fun be to in Aruba together!!
In closing, starting a new life together is an exciting time. So too is buying a new home together and making it your own. However, it may make sense to take a deep breath, think about things now that you are through your wedding, and reassess when the timing is right. When that time is right, I would love the opportunity to help you find your piece of the American dream!
