For one thing, many homes in the Intown area are older, historical homes. While there might be a little more to pay in the way of renovation and repairs, you could also benefit through tax credits both on the state and federal level. Georgia’s Historic Preservation Division has a 25 percent income tax credit for certified historic properties, both owner-occupied and income-producing, and an additional 5 percent credit if the residence is in a Housing and Urban Development Department target area. Those incentives can certainly help offset a little more maintenance and sometimes stricter building guidelines.

Another benefit that’s often glossed over with a number of people being underwater in their mortgage, i.e. owing more on their mortgage than their home is currently valued, is the growth of equity. Putting money against the principal value of your loan means that you’re paying into an investment for the future worth of the home every month. Homes are a long term investment, and with historically low interest rates and home prices, you won’t be looking to get a return for another five to eight years as excess inventory from foreclosures slowly leaves the market.

Glink’s article also explores other benefits and provides several resources for homebuyers. To read her full article, visit the Equifax Finance Blog.

Do you have any benefits to share about homeownership? Let us know in the comments!

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And NOW… mortgage rates are at a 50-year low. And some experts predict that home prices could go even lower – or at least not go higher in the short term. On the Equifax Personal Finance blog, Real Estate Expert Ilyce Glink argues that NOW really is a good time to buy because of those two factors. Your new home will cost less because prices are so low and because you won’t pay as much to finance it.

But if you really are planning to get off the fence NOW, you need to plan to stay in your home for awhile. Check out Ilyce’s post at Equifax to find out why before you buy your new home.

Residents of the Atlanta loft condos can easily walk to any number of nearby eateries, antique shops, art galleries or coffee shops. And even though the lofts are in the city, a newly converted biking and walking trail is close. The trail, once an old railroad, includes more than two acres of a linear park. The trail features brick pavers, an observation deck, benches and beautiful landscaping. Everyone, including bikers, dog walkers, and active runners can enjoy the beautiful and quite retreat the trail provides.

The live, work, play lifestyle enjoyed by residents at the Lofts at 5300 is made even easier with the Chamblee MARTA station right across the street. Additionally, the lofts are close to Lenox and Phipps Plaza so shoppers have nearby access to some of Atlanta’s finest stores. Such a convenient location means residents have the freedom to leave their car at home while they spend an evening or day out on the town.

The Lofts at 5300 is a one-of-a-kind mixed use development in Chamblee, Georgia. The project has 242 lofts in a mid-rise building which offer a variety of floorplans. Plans range from studio to three-bedroom condominiums. Luxury features (http://www.loftsat5300.com/features/) include 10 foot ceilings, granite counter tops, hardwood floors, and sleek stainless steel appliances. The lavishness of the Lofts at 5300 are enhanced by the unique amenities such as the rooftop deck with tennis courts, three lush interior courtyards with unique water features, and a modern fitness center. Developed by Carter Development Company, INC the lofts are reasonably priced from $108,900 to $214,900. The condominiums are conveniently located in Chamblee’s Mid City District, across the street from the Chamblee MARTA station and above many shops.

Visit http://www.loftsat5300.com or call (770) 986-7070 for more information on the Lofts at 5300

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