Keeping Current Matters November 12, 2023
Buyer
Are you dreaming of buying your own home and wondering about how you’ll save for a down payment? You're not alone. Some people think about tapping into their 401(k) savings to make it happen. But before you decide to dip into your retirement to buy a home, be sure to consider all possible alternatives and talk with a financial expert. Here’s why.
The data shows many Americans have saved a considerable amount for retirement (see chart below):
It can be really tempting when you have a lot of money saved up in your 401(k) and you see your dream home on the horizon. But remember, dipping into your retirement savings for a home could cost you a penalty and affect your finances later on. That's why it's important to explore all your options when it comes to saving for a down payment and buying a home. As Experian says:
“It’s possible to use funds from your 401(k) to buy a house, but whether you should depends on several factors, including taxes and penalties, how much you’ve already saved and your unique financial circumstances.”
Using your 401(k) is one way to finance a home, but it's not the only option. Before you decide, consider a couple of other methods, courtesy of Experian:
No matter what route you take to purchase a home, be sure to talk with a financial expert before you do anything. Working with a team of experts to develop a concrete plan prior to starting your journey to homeownership is the key to success. Kelly Palmer, Founder of The Wealthy Parent, says:
“I have seen parents pausing contributions to their retirement plans in favor of affording a larger home often with the hope they can refinance in the future… As long as there is a tangible plan in place to get back to saving for their retirement goals, I encourage families to consider all their options.”
If you’re still thinking about using your 401(k)-retirement savings for a home down payment, consider all your options and work with a financial professional before you make any decisions.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
Buyer
March 13, 2025
Buying your first home is exciting, but let’s be real – it can also feel overwhelming.
Lifestyle
March 13, 2025
As much as our stories are about ourselves, they are also a window into our ancestral past.
Buyer
March 13, 2025
At one point or another, you’ve probably heard someone say, “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”
Lifestyle
March 12, 2025
It is not uncommon to go on a vacation and wonder, “Why am I not living here?” While the U.S. only ranks 23rd on the World Happiness Report, there are pockets of happi… Read more
Seller
March 12, 2025
A new data report from Redfin (NASDAQ: RDFN) has reached the conclusion that the wealthiest 1% of Americans have the financial capacity to buy 99% of the nation’s home… Read more
Seller
March 12, 2025
Over the past 5 years, home prices have risen dramatically.
We Guide Homeowners through the complicated process of selling their home using our 4 Phase Selling Process and 3 Prong Marketing Strategy that alleviates their stress and moves them effortlessly to their next destination. Schedule a 15 Minute Complimentary Strategy Session Today