More Home Ownership-The American Dream

A major benefit to homeownership is community. There is a greater sense of community among homeowners than there is with renters. Studies have shown that homeowners have a higher participation in local volunteer activities; participate more in local political activities and organizations; have higher voting rates; and are more involved in self-help activities (like the PTA and neighborhood crime watches) than those who rent. Homeowners do not move as frequently as renters, therefore providing more neighborhood stability. This helps reduce crime and support neighborhood upkeep and value.

Let’s look at homeownership as an investment. In 1998 the average Homeowner’s net worth exceeded that of renters by 31 times. In 2001 it was 36 times and eventually in 2007 it was all the way up to 46 times that of renters. Even in these toughest times, the wealth of the homeowner is still over 30 times that of renters. Now, homeownership isn’t about a guaranteed financial short-term return – the market goes up, down and back up again. We have to be prepared for the long-term and a key component to wealth is homeownership.  In Pew Research Center’s The Home as an Investment Survey, 81% of Americans agree that buying a home is still the best long-term investment a person can make.

There’s also the aspect of an educational investment. United States Immigrants all talk about home ownership because they want a better education for their children. It’s proven that children of homeowners achieve greater math and reading scores, they have lower high school dropout rates, and more years of schooling by the age of 25.

Not to mention there’s also a greater social network among homeowners than renters. You have a built in support system of neighbors and friends. You know the local merchants and they know you. You have that support system for you and your family – and it’s there for life.

There you have it. You now know the benefits to homeownership and the American dream.