COLUMBUS, Miss. – Understanding the Path to Homeownership
In today’s housing market, many potential buyers stand at a crossroads, feeling overwhelmed by the unknowns and complexities of purchasing a home. For those who have never navigated these waters before, the journey can seem intimidating. Thankfully, Columbus-Lowndes Public Library hosted a first-time homebuyers’ workshop designed to help people take their first steps into homeownership.
Empowering First-Time Buyers
At the workshop, attendees gathered to gain valuable insights from experts in the field, all eager to shed light on the often murky waters of home buying. One of the attendees, Melissa Duncan, who also works as the outreach coordinator for the library, shared her thoughts on the impact of homeownership.
“Owning a home would give me a sense of just permanence and ease,” Duncan reflected. “When you think about the amount of money that goes into renting a place that is not yours, you realize you’re essentially pouring your hard-earned money into someone else’s pocket. When you own a home, you start to see the fruits of that labor over time.”
The Importance of Credit Scores
During the session, a major focus was placed on the significance of having a good credit score when applying for a mortgage. Duncan emphasized this as a crucial step for first-time home buyers. “If you’re a first-time home buyer, the absolute most important thing is getting your credit score in order,” she advised.
She noted that many people might shy away from asking questions about credit because they assume it’s something everyone knows about. “But you literally don’t know what you don’t know,” she added, emphasizing the need for awareness and education in this area.
Patience is Key
Moreover, Duncan encouraged future homeowners to manage their expectations and exercise patience during the process. “It is a marathon, not a sprint,” she acknowledged. “You’re going to have to put in a lot of work on the front end in order to have that success on the back end.”
Encouragement and Guidance
Brandi Bingham, the workshop speaker, provided reassurance and support to attendees, stressing that homeownership is a goal that is achievable for everyone. “If you don’t know where to start, give me a call and I’ll be glad to get you to where you need to be,” she said, extending her services to those feeling lost.
A State of Homeowners
The enthusiasm for homeownership is indeed contagious in Mississippi, where data from the 2023 census reveals that nearly three-quarters of the state’s population owns their home. This makes Mississippi the sixth highest state in the nation for homeownership rates. It’s an encouraging statistic for those considering making the leap into home buying.
Final Thoughts
As the workshop came to an end, attendees left with a newfound understanding and a sense of confidence in their ability to navigate the home buying process. With experts at hand to answer questions and provide crucial insights, the path to homeownership appears clearer than ever.
