During this time of global uncertainty on health, the economy, employment, and future investments, we’re left wondering where it would be safe to invest our money. As other markets are drastically impacted by market fluctuations such as stock values and investment portfolios, real estate continues to stand the test of time. Real estate is a real, tangible and usable asset that you can call home. Real estate has proven to be a safe investment time and time again, since it consistently increases in value. With mortgage interest rates remaining at a historically low rate, and recent government incentives, real estate is indeed a safe and wise choice.  Take a look at why, as well as tips to make the best of the home buying process! 
 
Impressive Government Incentives 
There are a number of government incentives in place to support home buyers, from tax credits to interest-free loans. Take a look at three of the most beneficial incentives below. 
 
1. The First Time Home Buyer Incentive
This incentive allows first time home buyers who have the minimum required down payment from their own resources to finance a portion of their home purchase. Qualified buyers are able to apply for an interest-free loan from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation who would offer 5% towards a resale home purchase or 10% towards a new build. 
 
2. RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan
This incentive allows you to withdraw funds from your Registered Retirement Savings Plans to buy or build a home. The plan allows you to pay back withdrawn funds within a 15 year period. 
 
3. Home Buyer Tax Credit
The Government of Canada offers a non-refundable tax credit that allows first time purchasers of homes to claim up to $5,000 in the year when they purchase a home. 
 
Buying your first home is likely the largest investment of your life. These incentives can help you become a homeowner by improving affordability and making the process as simple as possible. 
 
Protection for Buyers and Sellers
Real estate is a safe investment choice because it offers long term protection. It doesn’t fade
the way stock market investments can fade, and it consistently climbs in value over time. Even with minor fluctuations, real estate recovers its value rapidly for one undeniable fact: We all need a place to live. Real estate is a real tangible asset, that's even protected against loss or fire by your home insurance. Think about it- what stocks can possibly be this secure? Real estate is the perfect investment to bring home.
 
Start with Virtual Tours
In a time when we’re being told to stay home as much as we can, virtual home tours are more enticing than ever. Fortunately, you no longer have to physically visit every house on the market to see which one is the best fit for you. With virtual tours, you can view more houses, faster, and you can see whether you’re interested in a house without ever stepping foot on the property. With virtual home tours, you’re able to reduce the number of “must-see” properties, decrease the overall hours of physical searching, and get in an offer faster than ever before. 
 
Use a Reputable Realtor
You may have a good idea of what you’re looking for in a property, but a reputable realtor will make the process smoother in so many ways. First of all, realtors are experts in their field. They have objective information about each property, and can provide information on the neighbourhood, zoning, schools and more. Secondly, realtors have superior negotiating skills, and know what works and what doesn’t. They’ll be able to get you the best deal possible and prevent you from taking an unnecessary financial plunge. 
 
Your agent will also alert you on issues that may not cross your mind, such as leaks, roofing problems, mold and insect issues. A realtor will know the telltale signs of these problems and know how to approach them. If you want to feel confident in making the best choice of home and neighbourhood, a reputable realtor can make that happen for you. 

Real estate continues to be a safe and protected investment. Reach out to us at Ask Nina if you have any questions on how to get your home search started today.