So, you’ve settled into the new year. With the first month almost over, you may be evaluating what you have (or have not) accomplished so far. Resolutions, or the breaking thereof, are usually still at the forefront of our mind, as well as what you may be thinking about as far as where you see yourself this time next year.

Well, where DO you see yourself this time next year?

Talk of the economy is growing long in the tooth. We all know what happened a few years ago to the housing market, and whenever there is a slow news day, we’re bombarded ad nauseum with either housing recovery hopes, or more crashes ahead (depending on which way the wind is blowing, it seems). To help you get your head out of the bombardment of the 24 hour news cycle, here are some actual facts regarding the housing market:

FACT: As of November 2011, housing prices were the lowest they’ve been since December 2002.

FACT: Interest rates are crazily…er…HISTORICALLY low. Ah, forget about it. They’re CRAZY low!

FACT: There are great loan programs for qualified first time home buyers who may be able to buy a home with as little as half a percent down payment. Yes, I didn’t misquote…HALF A PERCENT DOWN!

So where do you see yourself this time next year? Are you still renting that cramped apartment with the walls that are as thin as toilet paper, where you have to park your car in a (GASP!) carport? Have you checked your rental payment lately vs. the price of housing and the cost of a monthly mortgage payment? Have you considered (or reconsidered) the tax benefits of owning a home?

If you’re on the fence, and you’re even thinking or wondering what it takes to buy a home and stop paying rent, click here to see what homes are selling for. No obligation, no sales pitch, just take a look.

Better yet, if you DO have questions about taking that step toward home ownership, I’m here to answer your questions. You can either click here to send me a message, or call me direct at 661-209-7447.  It’s that simple. No muss, no fuss!

Lisa B. Kaul is an experienced, licensed real estate professional. For more information, go to http://kaul4homes.com.