Real estate is a great long-term investment.  Over the long-term, real estate prices and values tend to go up , especially, in a highly desirable area like the Bay Area.

Several of us have grown up in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai. We can see that how much the real estate prices have appreciated over past 10, 20, 30 years.

It provides tax benefit. The interest on the home mortgage is tax-deductible. So it provides a great tax break.

Equity – the money you pay up in rent is just gone. But mortgage payments let you build equity in the house.

Unlike rent, the mortgage payments do not change, especially if you have fixed-rate mortgage. With rent you have no control over your monthly payment, unless you live in a rent controlled area. A lot of people in Bay Area are having a tough time as the rents have gone up so much over the past few years.

Freedom – Your home is yours. You can do pretty much anything with it, especially, If you do not have HOA (Homeowner Association). Even with HOA, you can make any changes to the inside of your home. You can remodel. You can make upgrades. You cannot do that with the rental property.

Above all, remember home is where our sweetest memories are made. This is where the kids make connection to the friends, and you develop relationships with the neighbors, not so much with a rental.

Make sure you have an AGENT who is competent, honest, sincere and ethical.  Who has knowledge, experience and a  great reputation. Who will guide you and handhold you thru out the transaction. Not only will it save you money, stress and headaches. You will be much happier in the long run !!