Home Ownership Matters

The Home Ownership Matters flyer arms REALTORS® and consumers with the information they need to stand up for home ownership. On the back, are 13 clear facts showing why home ownership matters to people, to communities, and to America.

How can I get copies of the flyer?
You may download the flyer, and print copies to hand out or share it by e-mail.
Download the flyer

Where do the facts come from?
The facts in the flyer were compiled by NAR’s research department from several reports citing exclusive and third-party data about the social and economic benefits of home ownership. Here are the reports behind the facts:
11/1/2010 – The Long Term Value of Home Ownership in the U.S. (PDF: 135 KB)

  • Home owners are happier and healthier and enjoy a greater feeling of control over their lives.
  • Home owners pay 80% to 90% of federal income taxes, contributing to federal programs that benefit all Americans.
  • Every home purchased pumps $60,000 into the economy for furniture, home improvements, and related items.
  • Housing accounts for more than 15% of the national Gross Domestic Product, a key driver of our national economy. (Additional source: National Association of Home Builders)

11/16/2010 – Did You Know? Net Worth: Home Owners vs. Renters

  • Owning a home is a one of the best ways to build long-term wealth. Historically, a home owner’s net worth has ranged from 31 to 46 times that of a renter.
  • People who own their homes vote more …

11/15/2010 – Did You Know? Annual Rent Increases Make Home Ownership a Good Investment

  • Most home owners enjoy stable housing costs—a fixed rate mortgage payment might not change for 15 or 30 years while rent typically increases 3% a year.

9/28/2010 – Home Ownership and Civic Engagment

  • People who own their own homes … volunteer more and contribute more to their neighborhoods.

9/1/2010 – Social Benefits of Home Ownership and Stable Housing

  • Home owners do not move as frequently as renters, providing more neighborhood stability. In turn, this stability helps reduce crime and supports neighborhood upkeep.
  • Children of home owners do better in school, stay in school longer …
  • 67% of American households are owner-occupied. America is a nation of home owners.

Find more home ownership research at Home Ownership Matters: Stats and Data.