‘Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization.’ This is the very first line from the Preamble of the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics…Ownership of property is pivotal to an individual’s success in this USA life. The American Dream is defined by it. Generational Wealth comes from it. Communities succeed because of it. I venture to say that our country’s success stems from what home ownership gives Americans. As a Realtor, I love that our association makes it clear, in the first two lines of our important declaration, that home ownership should be in the hands of the many as opposed to the grips of the few. It is a very important distinction and one I will continue to fight for on behalf of every person who wishes to own their own property.
As a society, we are happier and healthier when our citizens are taken care of. When our needs are met – air, water, food, and shelter – we want for things. We want clean air and water, healthy and delicious food, a safe home that is our own. It is when we achieve these small but incredibly impactful improvements, we can be better for our families and for our communities. I take extreme pride in advocating for home ownership for these simple reasons. Is it hyperbolic to say that owning your own home makes this world a better place? I don’t think so. Practically speaking, owning property is the best investment one can make in their lifetime. Not only does it give one a sense of self and responsibility for the world around them, but it also provides a great deal of wealth if that investment is cared for properly. It behooves us all – Realtors, politicians, business owners, every day citizens – to make homeownership a reality for the masses. It is my goal to continue to fight for housing availability and affordability so that we can have more people achieve this dream.
Future monetary value is probably what most people think about when they consider buying a home. Owning property can give you multiple tax incentives. Homeowners also have more financial worth than those who do not own homes. Additionally though, home ownership offers an intangible advantage. Homeowners are an important and vital element of community. The worth of owning a home goes far beyond personal gain. When you own your home, you invest more in the world around you. The security and stability of owning your own home allows you to volunteer, start a family, get involved in politics, support the local public schools…You spend your time and money in the community because that community, like your home, becomes a place where you want to spend that energy – to make it better, safer, more inspired. In many cases, a mortgage is more affordable than rent enabling us to go out and support our local economy, especially small businesses. I love being the steward of this venture because of the impact it has on our world – the community where I raise my family and give back so much of my time. I am so proud of where I live and it thrills me to think that I get to share some little part of that with each client I serve.
Since the beginning of life on earth, we have been consumed by finding our village. Having a home – a city, a community, a neighborhood, a house – these things add to our wellness, our identity. It is a feeling that only grows when one has the opportunity to own their own home.
Physical, mental, and financial health are personal benefits but those benefits don’t stop there. The world around you prospers when you own your home.