Tamika, There are many variables to consider when thinking of buying or leasing in Birmingham. There are currently quite a few investors in the Birmingham area that are leasing due to the time it is taking to sell their investment properties, so if you are going to be in Birmingham for 3 years but may decide to stay here longer if your husband finds a great job in the area, a lease purchase option may work for you. But this would also depend on the area of Birmingham that you would like to live. Also, since interest rates remain at a record low now is the time to invest instead of renting. There are some great properties available in our area and our market is one of the strongest resale markets in the country. If your time frame is only 3 years, I would look at properties that are already updated, because living during updating a home is difficult and you only have a short time to enjoy Birmingham.
I wish you the best! - Fri May 9 2008, 06:42