Relocating to Havre: Buy or Rent? (renters, selling a house, buying)

[LKG0324]

I am moving to Havre and would like to live downtown in the historic district. The key issue is whether to buy or rent. When I was there a few months ago, there was little to rent and what we saw was on the shabby side. However, I am concerned that if we buy, we will have trouble selling the house when we leave, probably in 2-3 years. My home is important to me and I currently own a bungalow style house that is charming and homey. Being that Winter in Havre is long and we want to have a nice place to live, we are not sure what to do.

[GEORGIAINMT]

Originally Posted by LKG0324

I am moving to Havre and would like to live downtown in the historic district. The key issue is whether to buy or rent. When I was there a few months ago, there was little to rent and what we saw was on the shabby side. However, I am concerned that if we buy, we will have trouble selling the house when we leave, probably in 2-3 years. My home is important to me and I currently own a bungalow style house that is charming and homey. Being that Winter in Havre is long and we want to have a nice place to live, we are not sure what to do.

I think your answer would depend on your budget. My friends lived in a small old house right off one of the downtown business streets. It was really gross and the cost was really high! When it came time for them to buy they ended up buying in a very tiny town a ways from Havre because they couldn't find anything in their budget that was decent or even worth renovating. Keep in mind this is 2nd hand information, so you may find out more from some locals. I would call some realtors and ask around. Let them know your budget, etc. and I bet they would be willing to lead you in the right direction. What in the world is taking you to Havre anyway?????

[LKG0324]

What brings me to Havre? A relationship..my boyfriend is working there.

[GEORGIAINMT]

Originally Posted by LKG0324

What brings me to Havre? A relationship..my boyfriend is working there.

Perfect reason!

[seven of nine]

You know in this current market, and IMO it is just beginning to come here I would hold off and rent to see where things are going. It is a college town so anything you own then rent later will have its challenges with the student renters, The old saying stay for 5 years or do not buy is a good rule of thumb. Welcome to the board, come to the porch to visit.

[T-310]

Originally Posted by LKG0324

I am moving to Havre and would like to live downtown in the historic district. The key issue is whether to buy or rent. When I was there a few months ago, there was little to rent and what we saw was on the shabby side. However, I am concerned that if we buy, we will have trouble selling the house when we leave, probably in 2-3 years. My home is important to me and I currently own a bungalow style house that is charming and homey. Being that Winter in Havre is long and we want to have a nice place to live, we are not sure what to do.

Check www.havredailynews.com for rentals or contact the local realtors.
www.northernlandandrealty.com
www.havremtrealty.com
www.koefod.com


Note: The renters are not pet friendly. So if you have a dog or cat, you might have a problem finding a place to rent.

As for selling a house, if you price it fairly, it will sell. A lot of current sellers think their houses are worth more than they really are plus they think there is going to be a new influx of Border Patrol officers so they have artificially jacked the housing prices.

[LKG0324]

I appreciate your input. And I am concerned about the pet rental issue as I have a cat. With that said, I did see a new house listing this week on Property West website, but it seemed pricey to me. The listing was a bungalow (looked nice in photos), but it was listed $156,000.

[T-310]

Originally Posted by LKG0324

I appreciate your input. And I am concerned about the pet rental issue as I have a cat. With that said, I did see a new house listing this week on Property West website, but it seemed pricey to me. The listing was a bungalow (looked nice in photos), but it was listed $156,000.

The wife and I had a cat when we moved here. I worked with Russ Getten of Northern Land and Realty and he found a house for us to rent in Highland park that accepted the cat.

And the price of the house seems the average. Depends on if its been renovated or upgraded.

My advice is see Carl of Havre Montana Realty. Super nice guy and is always available to show some houses. There are some deals there, you just have to persevere. Plus, find out how long its been on the market. If its been on the market awhile, they might get desperate to sell and will accept an offer lower than what they are asking.

[cordier]

thinking about relocation to harve, mt
not sure where to live. nervous and anxious.
can anyone help me, give me advice?