Travel
Like The
"Rich and Famous. . ."
Discover How A Pauper
Travels Like A King!
Vacation Homes Are Becoming A
Reality For More Homeowners
by: W. Troy Swezey
Whether it’s a lakefront cottage or a log cabin in
the woods, a
vacation home often seems to be a dream that only the wealthy can
afford. But these days, you don’t have to be a millionaire to own one.
A nationwide survey shows the median household
income of
second-home owners is $46,500. With today’s continued low interest
rates, the tax advantages a second home can bring, and a wide selection
of areas experiencing solid home price appreciation, this is an
excellent time to consider purchasing a second home as an investment –
and a great getaway place.
When searching for your second home, remember to
investigate
the area thoroughly. Ask a Realtor® and the local chamber of
commerce
to provide information packets, maps and brochures. Take time to visit
the area several times – a few months prior to and during its peak
season(s). Are the crowds unbearable? Is the weather unpredictable?
Speak with a local Realtor regarding current and
past home
prices. Knowing the area’s sales history will help determine the market
value of the homes and effectively predict their appreciation
potential.
Once you’ve settled on a community, work with a
Realtor and
lending institution to determine how much home you can afford. Drive
around the town and its neighborhoods. Experience the day-to-day
activity around potential properties. Keep in mind you may decide to
retire to the area one day. Will the property serve two purposes – that
of vacation and retirement home? More and more Americans are purchasing
vacation properties in areas where they plan to eventually retire.
Remember, vacation homes remain a good investment
and provide
substantial deductions on yearly tax forms if they meet certain
criteria. As the laws are ever-changing, complex and detailed, consult
your real estate agent, who will usually work with a tax attorney or
certified accountant, to calculate the tax benefits of owning a second
home.
Relaxing in your own home in that dream vacation
spot is not
out of your reach. More and more Americans are realizing that owning a
vacation home is do-able – not to mention a good investment and a
peaceful retreat for years to come.
About The Author
W. Troy Swezey is the author of “VACATION HOMES
ARE BECOMING A
REALITY FOR MORE HOMEOWNERS." As a Realtor at Century 21 Paul &
Associates, he has helped many individuals with their real estate
needs. Visit his web site to download his free e-book, “REAL ESTATE
SECRETS EXPOSED.” http://www.TroyIsMyRealtor.com
or mail to: TroyC21@usa.net
Todays Travel Tip
Did you know buying a one way or split ticket can be better than
round trip sometimes? Well, our traveling pauper sure does! Let’s
say you’re going from Boston to Dallas. It may be cheaper to get
two separate tickets. You could buy one ticket from Boston to
Nashville and one from Nashville to Dallas. It all depends on the
connecting cities and your airlines hubs. Just tell your agent you
are willing to travel out of other airports and connect using regional
airports to save money. Check back tomorrow for
another tip.
P.S.
If you have ever wanted to travel like the "rich and famous," here is
your opportunity. The Pauper's Secret Confessions alone, are
worth 10 times the cost of this book. Never take another trip
without being prepared!
