Jennifer Rouse

I believe that being a homeowner is one of the best gifts that you can give yourself. Although it is a very big commitment, it is a milestone in one's life and so many people do not have this opportunity. If you do get this opportunity to own a home, take it. Buying a place as a 20-something was a little scary. I was living at home, but was ready to move closer to where I work and I wanted my own space. I was ready. I really did not want to rent. I had tried to save so much money and stay on a budget for so long to save for my future so if I rented a place, what was I saving for? I did not want to spend the same amount monthly for a mortgage that I would spend on a months rent so I bit the bullet and decided to purchase a condo in Astoria. I found a place pretty quickly since inventory was super low (as it is right now) and put in an offer. I had never even rented an apartment so I really had no idea what I was doing. Transfer Taxes, Attorneys, Additional Fees, etc. Now I was wondering what I had gotten myself into. I just wish that I had someone that would be able to help me and walk me through the process. Although I didn't have anyone that could do that, I am able to do it for you when you are ready. There is no doubt that all of these things are scary and that it is a lot of money that needs to be spent. But when I signed all of those papers at the closing and got those keys to the first home I have ever lived in by myself and I owned it, it was such a euphoric moment. I couldn't believe this place was actually mine! Now I sit here today, 18 years later, renting my first property out as investment property. I currently live in my second property I purchased in 2017. In 2019 I purchased an additional investment property and now on my way to purchase a part time vacation home. In the beginning I was scared and I was not sure that what I was doing was right, but knowing that my property now that I own is worth almost double what I paid for it, makes all of that stress and worry so worthwhile. Your home purchase is a very strong investment. Real Estate in New York is something that has accrued value for so long, and it will continue. There will be ups and downs like anything else but in the end it is so worth it!!!