Here are three Reasons why you should get off the fence and buy a home now.

Do not wait before taking the plunge into homeownership.

1. The 30-Year Mortgage May Disappear

There has been much debate regarding government's role in providing support for homeownership. There are several experts who believe if Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's roles are eliminated, or even limited, it may be the end to the 30-year mortgage. This concern is addressed in MSN Real Estate's, Is it curtains for the 30-year mortgage?

2. QRM Requirements Could Be Much More Stringent

Here are proposed changes to the requirements for a 'qualified residential mortgage':
• Certain mortgage types would be eliminated
• You would need to put a minimum of 20% down
• You would need a minimum 690 FICO score
• The ratios of income to both the mortgage payment and overall debt would become much more conservative (28% and 36%)
There would be loans available to purchasers who don't qualify under the new rules. However, they will probably be more expensive to the buyer (both in rate and costs).

3. Rents are Expected to Increase

The supply of available rentals is decreasing and the demand is increasing. That will lead to an increase in rental costs throughout the year. The Wall Street Journal recently quoted a report by Reis, Inc in which it states, "Expect vacancies to continue declining, and rents rising through the rest of 2011 at an even faster pace."