NAR’s “Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing” report reveals that homeowners are happier and healthier. They tend to vote more, volunteer more, and contribute more to their neighborhoods.
Historically, June is one of the busiest months for real estate activity, so much so that the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has celebrated June as Homeownership Month for many years. This year, with housing inventory shortages at the lowest level in many decades, becoming a homeowner has become more challenging. A few more homes are coming on the market with COVID-19 fears easing, but the outlook is that the record-low supply will continue. In April 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau reported the homeownership rate in the U.S. is 65.3%. Since 2000, the homeownership rate has been within a few percent points of this rate every year. The National of Association of Realtors works hard to keep homeownership at a high level.
“Homeownership Matters” has been an overarching theme of the National Association of Realtors, but especially during Homeownership Month. NAR reports that “A number of research studies have shown that homeownership provides social and societal benefits. Not only is home ownership one of the best ways to build long-term wealth, providing resources for a more comfortable retirement, but it also fosters an immeasurable sense of community and stability vital to growing families.”
NAR’s “Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing” report reveals that homeowners are happier and healthier. They tend to vote more, volunteer more, and contribute more to their neighborhoods. Homeowners do not move as frequently as renters, which encourages more neighborhood stability, and children of homeowners are more likely to participate in organized activities and spend less time in front of the television.
Why Homeownership Matters
Equity Build Up
Over time, through both strong and weak economic conditions, the value of a home in most markets across the country has increased. In the U.S., we are blessed with financing, which enables people to buy a home with relatively small down payments and a 30-year amortizing loan. When increasing home values are combined with a principal loan balance which drops each month, you build equity. This accrual of equity directly contributes to the wealth and financial stability of homeowners.
Tax Incentives
The interest paid on a mortgage creates a tax deduction, with limits, on a taxpayer’s return. Property taxes paid, with limitations, are also deductible. These two tax deductions help lower the expense of purchasing a home.
Neighborhood Pride
Homeowners take pride in their neighborhood. They tend to be more involved in the community when they have an ownership stake. Homeowners are the bedrock of any thriving community.
National Association of Realtors Homeownership Matters Campaign
NAR and its members are dedicated to helping more Americans become homeowners. Millions of people have used the resources available from NAR to learn about buying a home and staying informed about the issues of homeownership. You can learn about the resources at: homeownershipmatters.realtor/about.
As a homeowner, you have the power to influence policies that are created to protect homeownership. You can stay informed about these policies and how to strengthen your community by clicking on the “Stay Informed” link on the website above.
Contact your Realtor for expert help in purchasing a home.
By Duane Duggan. Duane has been a Realtor for RE/MAX of Boulder in Colorado since 1982 and has facilitated over 2,500 transactions over his career. He has been awarded two of the highest honors bestowed by RE/MAX International: The Lifetime Achievement Award and the Circle of Legends Award. Living the life of a Realtor and being immersed in real estate led to the inception of his book, Realtor for Life. For questions, e-mail DuaneDuggan@boulderco.com, call 303.441.5611 or visit BoulderPropertyNetwork.