The recent rain and warmer temperatures are turning Jefferson County into a replica of the Emerald Isle. Well, that may be a bit of an exaggeration, but it is starting to look spring-like here. The spring sports are beginning and the number of people out and about has increased exponentially.

With all the grim news in the media about the so-called housing slump, we think it's important to talk about the different reasons to buy a home. They range from the practical to the emotional. The most important function of a home is to provide shelter. Either you purchase a home for yourself, or an investor will purchase a home which you will rent. Granted, it may not be the same home, but all of us must have shelter in some form. If you are a seasoned investor, you likely purchase property as a long-term investment and you are prepared for the cyclical nature of the market. Some purchasers find owning property attractive because of the tax benefits. Being able to write off mortgage interest is one of the last great deals! If you don't own property, this would be a good time to check with your accountant about how having mortgage interest to deduct would affect your income tax liability. Lastly, the emotion involved in owning your own home is powerful! We frequently hear from buyers that they didn't realize how proud they would feel the first time they turned the key in the lock of their very own home. Actually, teary smiles at closings are not unheard of when buyers realize they just made the American Dream come true! 

Wonderful homes are more abundant than four leaf clovers! Let us help you find yours!

May there be a pot of gold at the end of your rainbow!