Americans Consider Homebuying a Good Investment

The National Association of REALTORS^® 2015 National Housing Pulse Survey found that 8 in 10 Americans believe purchasing a home is a good financial decision, and 68 percent believe now is a good time to purchase a home. Seventy-one percent said they feel they could sell their house for what they paid for it, a 16 percent increase from 2013.

The top three reasons respondents gave for why homeownership matters to them has not changed. Building equity, wanting stability and a safe environment, and being free to choose their neighborhood are still the top reasons to own a home.

The number of renters thinking about purchasing a home has increased to 39 percent, while 61 percent of renters say owning a home is a priority for their future. Eighty-six percent of millennials under 35 say student loan debt is their main obstacle to owning a home.

“Homeownership is part of the American Dream, and this survey proves that dream is alive and thriving in our communities,” said NAR President Chris Polychron. REALTORS’^® believe that anyone who is able to assume the responsibilities of owning a home should have the opportunity to pursue that dream.”