Read the original article by Christy Bieber at Nasdaq.com.

With mortgage rates near record lows, many Americans are shopping for a home right now — even though prices have also been driven up in many parts of the country.

If you’re hoping to score a mortgage at one of the lowest rates in history and you’re financially ready to become a homeowner, you may be wondering if it makes sense to find a real estate agent and begin your search.

But if you’re half of a couple, there’s another thing you have to consider: whether you and your partner are ready to buy a house together and commit to a major joint financial obligation.

We believe, along with millions of Americans, that the dream of ownership is a dream that’s worth protecting. If you agree, we encourage you to add your name to our petition.