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Tag: property ownership

Downsizing or Rightsizing: Finding the Right Fit for Your Future

Downsizing or Rightsizing: Finding the Right Fit for Your Future

Posted on by Steve LaFrance

If you’re thinking about downsizing or rightsizing your home prior to retirement, you’re not alone. This decision is not just about reducing space – it’s a significant financial decision that can benefit your lifestyle and financial health and many people are choosing to adjust their living spaces as they approach this new chapter in their lives. Learn more about the process of downsizing or rightsizing and how it can help you as you approach retirement.

Assessing Your Living Space

As homeowners age and children begin to move out, it’s common for individuals to assess their homes, finding that they primarily live in just three rooms: the family room, the bedroom, and the kitchen. Housing expenses can constitute a significant portion of a person’s budget in retirement. Naturally, many look to reduce their home size as a way to cut these expenses. However, it’s important to remember that reducing the size of your home doesn’t always equate to reducing your budget. 

Financial Planning: Pre- and Post-Downsizing

Before taking the leap to downsize, it’s crucial to complete both a pre-downsizing budget and a post-downsizing budget with your financial advisor. This will give you a clear picture of your financial situation and help you understand the potential impact on your finances. Additionally, when selling your home, be aware of the potential capital gains tax implications. Fortunately, couples can exclude up to $500,000 of capital gains from the sale of their primary residence. You might also reinvest what you owe into a new permanent home. 

Personal Considerations

While the financial benefits of downsizing are important, they are not the only factors to consider. Many people also think about the proximity to family, a warmer climate, or being closer to friends, all of which can significantly influence your decision. It is also essential to recognize that downsizing your home can impact your estate planning goal, retirement goals, and other financial situations in your life. Sit down with your financial advisor to see how downsizing would impact all areas of your financial plan before making a final decision. 

Consulting with Trusted Advisors

At Blakely Financial, we suggest contacting your most trusted advisors to discuss this important decision. They can provide you with clarity, insight, and guidance tailored to your unique situation. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and having the best information possible is key to making an informed choice.

Downsizing or rightsizing your home is a significant decision that can shape your future in many different ways. By considering all factors and seeking professional advice, you can make a choice that supports your financial well-being and personal happiness. Still on the fence? Contact Blakely Financial today to get started. 

 

Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM  to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
The Benefits of Investing in a Second Home

The Benefits of Investing in a Second Home

Posted on by Robert Blakely

Owning a second home is not just about having a getaway spot – it’s a strategic investment offering multiple financial and personal benefits. Whether it’s a beachfront condo, a mountain cabin, or a house in a serene village, we’re exploring the multifaceted benefits of investing in a second home.

Investment Potential

Investing in a second home can be a smart financial move. Many properties, especially those in sought-after vacation destinations not only hold their value but also appreciate over time. This appreciation paired with choosing the right location and maintaining the property well can turn your second property into an increasingly valuable asset in your long-term investment strategy as years pass.

Rental Income

One of the most appealing aspects of owning a second home is the opportunity to generate income through rentals. When you are not using the property, you can rent it out to travelers or even long-term tenants. This rental income can help cover the cost of the mortgage, necessary maintenance, and property taxes, allowing you to own and maintain this additional property with minimal personal expense. If your vacation home is in a popular destination, it can command high rental prices, especially during peak tourist seasons, and provide you with substantial supplemental income. 

Tax Deductions

Second homes can also offer tax advantages. As the property owner you have the potential to enjoy tax deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes, much like with your primary residence. These tax benefits can help make owning a second home more affordable while also easing your overall tax burden. It is important to speak with a tax professional to fully understand and maximize these benefits based on your own unique financial situation and both local and national tax laws. 

Diversified Assets

Diversifying your investment portfolio is a fundamental strategy used to mitigate risk, and real estate plays a vital role in this diversification. Investing in different types of properties in various locations allows you to reduce the risks associated with market fluctuations in any single investment area. A second home adds a tangible asset to your portfolio, which is often less volatile when compared to stocks and other financial investments. 

Customizable Vacations and Family Gatherings

Aside from the financial benefits, a second home provides a personal retreat tailored to your preferences. It eliminates the hassle of booking hotels or dealing with the uncertainties of vacation rentals and other accommodations. More importantly, it serves as a consistent gathering place for family and friends, helping to build cherished memories in a familiar setting. Owning a second home ultimately means customizable vacations where the only thing you need to plan is how to enjoy your time!

Retirement Preparation

For many, a second home is not just used as a spot to vacation or retreat but also as a potential retirement destination. When purchasing a second home during your working years you can also transition it into your ideal retirement residence. This approach allows you to become acclimated to the community and area you wish to retire in and gives you the advantage of planning ahead for the lifestyle you wish to live in retirement. 

Second homes present a unique blend of investment opportunity and personal sanctuary. Contact Blakely Financial today to see how a second home can enhance your financial plan!

 

Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM  to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
The Benefits of Owning Property

The Benefits of Owning Property

Posted on by Emily Promise

June is National Homeownership Month, making it a great time to explore the benefits of owning property. Real estate holds great investment potential and can be a rewarding long-term strategy for building wealth. Owning property offers a range of advantages, which can be extremely beneficial to your financial security. Here we’ll delve into these benefits, highlighting why owning property can often be a smart financial move.

Builds Equity

Owning property allows the owner to build equity over time. Equity is the portion of your property that you own, calculated by subtracting your remaining mortgage balance from the property’s current market value. As you make mortgage payments and property values appreciate, your equity grows. Building equity means you are more likely to make a profit when selling the home, even with an outstanding balance. With higher equity, you have a better chance of selling the property for more than you still owe on the mortgage, even if the market changes. Homes are one of the few types of assets with the potential to appreciate in value, giving you the opportunity to build long-term wealth.

Increases Your Net Worth

Net worth is the value of your assets minus your liabilities. Any property you own is an addition to your portfolio of assets and over time, as property values rise, your net worth will also increase. Historically, real estate has shown long-term appreciation, making it a valuable component of a diversified investment portfolio and a significant contribution to increasing net worth. Appreciation will vary by market.

Opportunity for Tax Deductions

Mortgage interest payments are tax-deductible. Additionally, in most countries, property taxes paid on the property you own are eligible for deductions. If you use a portion of your property for business purposes or rental income, further expense and depreciation-related deductions may also be possible. With all of these deductions, owning property can reduce your overall tax burden. 

Passive Income Source

Investing in rental or other income-generating properties offers one of the biggest benefits of owning property – passive income. This means that the property can provide a steady and reliable cash flow with little maintenance involved. This recurring income can help cover mortgage payments, any other property expenses, and even additional income. This is a great option for those looking to diversify their income streams, make some money on the side, and/or increase financial security during retirement.

Before investing in income-generating property, work out the cash flows to ensure that it is profitable for you. You will want to assess whether your income from the property will be consistent before purchasing. Consider all your expenses and that this new rental income may be taxed differently than employment income. 

Greater Security

Owning property offers a sense of security and stability in case of emergencies. It provides the assurance of having a place to call home without the risk of sudden changes in terms or potential eviction. Additionally, owning can act as  hedge against inflation as property values tend to appreciate over time. Real estate owned becomes a tangible and valuable asset serving as a foundation for long-term financial security, 

Owning property reaps a range of benefits to enhance your long-term financial health and build your wealth. When developing your investment strategy, consider the advantages of property ownership as it can be a powerful asset in building a strong financial future. Consulting a financial advisor can be helpful when making decisions regarding the purchase of property. Remember to consistently evaluate your financial situation to ensure your plan aligns with your goals. Contact Blakely Financial today to get started on your property ownership journey. 

Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM  to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.