Is there such a thing as a safe investment these days?  Anywhere other than Buffalo it’s a tough question.   Banks, homes, and stocks all register low on the confidence level.  However, we live in Buffalo!!!  What does that mean?  It means we are luckier than our Super Bowl record would suggest.  Here in Buffalo we have the stability and the strength of having never went boom, so we are not going bust.

Yes, we are all affected by the stock market losses.  Also, depending which one you are talking about, banks are still feeling quite risky.  Honestly, our mattress seem safer.

What about our homes?  This is where we find the good news.  Buffalo home values have actually increased, flying in the face of the natural trend.   Maybe it is only 3%--  but compare that to your 401K. Houses are looking gold-plated comparatively.

So if that’s true what should we do?  How do we “Invest in our homes”?  Well the answer is: it depends.

Clearly, the most important investments are the roof and foundation!  Without those two
being in good shape your home is in real danger of losing its value.  These must be priority one and two if you are considering a homes value.  After these you have improvements that not only add value, but can save you money on utilities, increase comfort, and ensure safety.  What are those, you ask?   The short list is windows, siding and insulation.

Energy efficient windows not only keep the cold out in the winter but keep it cooler in the summer.  Good windows also allow an easy exit in case of fire or other emergencies.

Siding and trim done well with insulated backer can stop drafts and that pesky scraping and painting every couple years, not to mention the cost and aggravation. A good siding job also makes your home look beautiful making it enjoyable to come home to.

 Insulation in your ceiling and/or walls can give you one of your best returns on your investment. There’s also a ‘draft defeating coziness’ that can be enjoyed with a properly done job.

 All of these amount to true investments with on-going ‘real’ return to be certain.

 So what is a safe investment?  In Buffalo; It’s “Home Sweet Home”!

Edited and published in the Buffalo News Home Finder/Saturday March 7, 2009