Monday, January 17, 2011

Why Homeownership Matters

Homeownership has a significant, positive impact on net worth, educational achievement, civic participation and overall quality of life. Owning a home is one of the best ways to build long-term wealth. In the past 12 years, a typical homeowner’s net worth has been 31-46 times that of a renter. Plus, most homeowners enjoy stable housing costs. In fact, studies show that fixed rate mortgage payments typically stay the same, while rent has increased at an average rate of approximately 3% per year in the last 10 years. 

The National Association of REALTORS contends that homeowners contribute more to their communities by voting and volunteering more. They do not move as frequently as renters, bringing stability to neighborhoods, which helps reduce crime and support upkeep.  And it has been shown that homeowners enjoy a better quality of life. They tend to be happier and healthier, and feel a greater sense of control over their lives. They are free to redecorate, renovate and modify their homes as they wish. And their children tend to do better in school and stay in school longer, according to a recent white paper by NAR titled “The Social Benefits of Home Ownership.”

Posted via email from Deaton's posterous

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