February 6, 2026

Top 3 Reasons to Buy a Home

Buying your first home is a major milestone and a big decision. It is normal to feel excited, cautious and full of questions all at once. Homeownership offers long-term benefits but also brings new responsibilities. We talked to some of our Real Estate team to find out more about the why behind buying a home to help you decide whether it is the right move for you.

Here are three foundational reasons many first-time buyers choose to own a home and what those reasons could mean for your future.

1. Build equity over time

When you own a home, your monthly mortgage payments help you build equity, which is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your loan.

For many first-time buyers, equity represents progress and momentum. It is one way homeownership can support longer-term financial goals. Naomi Tillman, Real Estate Loan Officer, said:

"I see equity as one of the most powerful parts of homeownership. It gives you options down the road, whether that’s improving your home or planning your next move."

Unlike rent payments, which do not offer a return, mortgage payments gradually increase your ownership stake in the property. Over time, that equity can become a valuable financial resource. Homeowners may eventually use it to upgrade to a new home, fund home renovations or help cover large expenses through options such as a Home Equity Line of Credit.

2. Create stability and a sense of ownership

Owning a home gives you the ability to put down roots and make decisions based on your needs, not a lease agreement. You can choose where you live, personalize your space and plan for the future with more certainty. Kimberly Richards, Mortgage Loan Consultant, shared:

"A sense of consistency and stability is something many homebuyers are looking for. It’s the peace of mind of not worrying about lease changes or rent increases. You can settle in, make the space your own and focus on what comes next."

Whether it is proximity to work or school, room to grow your family or the freedom to renovate and decorate, homeownership gives you control over your living environment. For many buyers, that stability supports both personal and financial confidence.

3. Gain potential long-term financial advantages

Real estate has historically been viewed as a reliable investment, and owning a home may offer financial benefits over time. In many competitive housing markets, owning can become more cost-effective than renting, particularly if you plan to stay in the same area for several years. Closing costs, mortgage payments, insurance, property taxes and maintenance all factor in, but so does the potential for your home’s value to increase. Carol Nelson, Real Estate Regional Sales Manager, said:

"For me, the biggest value of owning a home shows up over time. Once you move past the upfront costs, you start to see how homeownership can support long-term financial stability. Every situation is different, which is why it helps to talk through your options and understand what works best for you. That clarity can make a big decision feel far less overwhelming."

A helpful step for first-time buyers is calculating a personal break-even point, which shows how long it may take for buying to make more financial sense than renting, given your situation. Not sure whether to rent or buy? Check out this article.

Want more information about buying a home?

If you’re exploring whether buying your first home is right for you, our Real Estate Loan Officers are here to help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.

MESSAGE OUR REAL ESTATE TEAM

Grow Financial mortgage loans and HELOCs are subject to credit approval. Grow Financial mortgage loans are valid for the purchase or refinance of owner-occupied residential properties in the states of Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee including single-family detached, condominiums and townhomes. Not valid for the purchase of investment properties. Grow Financial mortgage loan rates are updated daily and available at growfinancial.org.

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