June is Homeownership Month: Celebrating the Benefits of Owning a Home
National Homeownership comes around every year in June. This annual celebration shines a spotlight on the significance of owning a home and the countless benefits it brings to individuals, families, and communities. By becoming a homeowner, people get a step closer to the American dream. Let's explore the origins of Homeownership Month, delve into the advantages of homeownership, and showcase some compelling statistics that highlight its positive impact.
The Origins of Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month started as a week-long celebration of homeownership during the Clinton administration in 1995.
It was not until 2002, that it was officially recognized by the U.S. government to promote the value of homeownership and raise awareness about the opportunities it presents. It serves as a reminder of the American Dream and the importance of having a place to call your own.
Throughout June, various organizations, government agencies, and housing advocates come together to provide resources, education, and support to those aspiring to become homeowners.
What Are the Non-Financial Benefits of Homeownership?
Owning a home brings you and your family happiness, satisfaction, and pride.
- Pride of Ownership: A place to call your own. You’ll be able to customize it according to your likes and personality without anyone telling you how.
- Civic Participation: Homeownership creates stability, and a sense of community, and increases civic engagement.
- Provides Stability and creates a positive environment for families.
- Provides a Safe Place: Owning gives you a sense of security and privacy. Two things that have become very valuable in our lives.
What Are the Financial Benefits of Homeownership?
Buying a home is also an investment in your and your family’s financial future.
- Forced Savings: Your monthly mortgage payment is a form of ‘forced savings’ which builds your net worth with every payment!
- Home Equity: Homeownership builds equity every month. You can use that equity to start a business, pay off debt, send your kids to college and so much more.
- Appreciation: Home prices increase annually which helps to create a safety net.
- Net worth: A homeowner's net worth is 44x greater than renters! This gives you the financial freedom to invest.
- Stability: Rent prices may increase each year. However, a fixed mortgage payment allows you to save for future projects and guard against inflation.
- Tax Benefits: Speak with your CPA to discuss the possible tax benefits homeownership can bring you.
Homeownership Stats
- Homeownership in America is constantly on the move, in-fact, some 65.8% of Americans own a home as of 2022.
- Millennials represent 43% of homebuyers, the highest share of any generation.
- The average age of first-time homebuyers in the US is 36 years old according to the National Associate of Realtors (NAR).
- U.S. homeowners on average have about $270,000 in equity, nearly $90,000 more than they had at the onset of the pandemic according to a CoreLogic report.
Bottom Line:
As we celebrate Homeownership Month in June, let us recognize the tremendous benefits that owning a home provides. From financial stability and tax advantages to a sense of community and personalization, homeownership plays a vital role in shaping individuals' lives and enhancing communities. Let us continue to support and empower individuals on their homeownership journey, creating a brighter future for all.
Home Buyer Resources
To encourage and educate aspiring home buyers, Greenway offers free information and resources. You can visit us online to learn more.
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FREE First-Time Home Buyer eBOOK – Includes handy resources & checklists
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First-Time Home Buyer Resources – Learn about our First-Time Home Buyer Programs
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Home Buying Comparison Chart - Take this chart with you during your home search
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Buying Your First Home – Learn everything you need to know
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Refinance Your Mortgage - Get a free loan quote
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Renovation Mortgage Programs - Put your home improvement plan into action
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Construction Loans - Can't find your dream home? Build it with a Construction Loan
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FREE Construction Loan Guide Book - Learn everything you need to know about construction loans and the process
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Mortgage Calculators – We have an entire library of easy-to-use calculators!
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Mortgage Terms – Get up to speed on some mortgage terminology
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When Can You Cancel Your Private Mortgage Insurance? - Find out by using our easy calculator
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Ready to get started? Apply Now using our online application.