The Feeling You Get from Owning Your Home
We often talk about the financial reasons why buying a home makes sense. But, more often than not, the emotional reasons are the more powerful and compelling ones.
No matter what shape or size your living space is, the concept and feeling of home can mean different things to different people. Whether it’s a certain scent or a favorite chair, that feeling of safety and security you gain from owning your own home is simultaneously one of the greatest and most difficult to describe.
Frederick Peters, a contributor for Forbes, recently wrote about that feeling, and the pride that comes from owning your own home.
“As homeowners discover, living in an owned home feels different from living in a rented home. It’s not just that an owner can personalize the space; it touches a chord even more fundamental than that.
Homeownership enhances the longing for self-determination at the heart of the American Dream. First-time homeowners, young or old, radiate not only pride but also a sense of arrival, a sense of being where they belong. It cannot be duplicated by owning a 99-year lease.”
Bottom Line
Owning a home brings a sense of accomplishment and confidence that cannot be achieved through renting. If you are debating renewing your lease, let’s get together before you do to answer any questions you may have about what your next steps should be, and what is required in today’s market!
What’s the Cost to Rent 1,000 Sq Ft in Utah?
Utah has an avg rent of $1,612/mo. The avg apartment size is 920 sq ft. Rent per sq ft comes to about $1.75. Utah ranks among the more costly states for rental housing. It’s a competitive market for renters valuing both space and location.
How to Determine Home Value
To determine a home's value, consider various methods including online automated valuation models (AVMs), which use public records and recent sales data. For a more detailed assessment, a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a local agent or a professional...
The Minimum Savings You Need to Retire in Utah
Utah ranks #15 among the most expensive states to retire based on the minimum savings needed Minimum savings needed to retire in the state: $1,083,951 Annual cost of living (total expenditures): $65,795 Annual Social Security income: $22,523.40 Annual expenditures...
Happy Father’s Day
Approximately 2.5 billion Father's Day cards are sent each year. Neckties have become a popular traditional gift for Father's Day. "World's Greatest Dad" is a popular Father's Day phrase. Breakfast in bed is a common Father's Day...
Happy Flag Day
Flag Day is the American flag's birthday party every June 14th! Flag Day was proclaimed in 1916 but officially recognized in 1949. Talk about a late celebration! Betsy Ross, a seamstress, sewed the first flag. Imagine if designers today made flag-inspired...
Why Everyone’s Moving to Utah
Utah ranks as the best state to live in for the 3rd consecutive year. Residents enjoy a mix of urban life in Salt Lake City and scenic small towns like Midway. It stands out for its fiscal stability, family-friendly communities, and outdoor recreation. A lower cost of...
Utah’s Home Values and Mortgage Balances Over 5 Years
Avg home value in 2025: ~$550K Change: ↑ 42% from ~$367K in 2020 Avg mortgage balance in 2025: ~$312K Change: ↑ 39% from ~$225K in 2020 US national 5-yr growth: • Home value: ↑ 40% • Mortgage balance: ↑ 24%
June is National Homeowners Month
In recognition of National Homeowner Month, it's essential to shed light on the multifaceted value that homeownership brings to individuals, families, and communities at large. This observance not only celebrates the achievement of owning a home but also delves...
Utah Tops Nation in Income vs. Cost of Living
Utah ranks #1 nationally for household income adjusted for cost of living, boosting real buying power. Utah’s diversified economy and strong GDP growth fuel rising household wages despite high housing costs.
Governor meets with mayors about boosting housing stock, announces dashboard to view progress
Utah aims to build 35,000 starter homes in four years to address housing affordability. Gov. Spencer Cox met with 48 mayors to discuss progress, noting 5,100 homes are underway but more effort is needed due to population growth. Cities like Clearfield and Herriman...