Yesterday, we discussed the reasons why homeownership makes sense, financially. Today we wanted to touch on the emotional or ‘real’ reasons that many Americans strive to become homeowners.
Oahu, North Shore Laniakea
The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University performs a study every year surveying participants for the reasons that Americans feel are most important in regards to homeownership.
The top 4 reasons to own a home cited by respondents were not financial.
1. It means having a good place to raise children and provide them with a good education. From the best neighborhoods to the best school districts, even those without children at the time of purchasing their home may have this in the back of their mind as a major reason for choosing the location of the home that they purchase.
2. You have a physical structure where you and your family feel safe. It is no surprise that having a place to call home with all that means in comfort and security is the #2 reason.
3. It allows you to have more space for your family. Whether your family is expanding, or an older family member is moving in, having a home that fits your needs is a close third on the list.
4. It gives you control over what you do with your living space, like renovations and updates. Looking to actually try one of those complicated wall treatments that you saw on Pinterest? Want to finally adopt that puppy or kitten you’ve seen online 100 times? Who’s to say that you can’t in your own home?
The 5th reason on the list is the #1 financial reason to buy a home as seen by respondents:
5. Owning a home is a good way to build up wealth that can be passed along to my family. Either way, you are paying a mortgage. Why not lock in your housing expense now with an investment that will build equity that you can borrow against in the future?
Hoakalei Country Club Golf Course designed by Ernie Els
Bottom Line
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a move-up buyer who wants to start a new chapter in their life, now is a great time to reflect on the intangible factors that make a house a home.
If you need any information about selling or about buying a home in Hoakalei or another neighborhood, please contact me.
Aloha for now! See you next time!
MM
Live the dream…Get your Hawaii Life now.
#MicheleSellsHawaii
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