Homeowners Celebrated National Homeownership Month This June

Homeowners and aspiring homeowners everywhere celebrated National Homeownership Month this June in a decades-long tradition dedicated to learning more about achieving an integral part of the American dream: owning a home.

Beginning as just a week of festivities in 1995, National Homeownership Month has grown in prevalence over the years, officially becoming a nationally celebrated month when President George W. Bush proclaimed it so in 2002. Since then, National Homeownership Month has been observed with success stories from Americans who have beaten the odds and an emphasis on making financial information more accessible, and in turn, demystifying the process of purchasing a home.

This year’s theme — “Find Your Place in a New Era of Homeownership” — strives to "recognize the abiding value of owning a home, and rededicate ourselves toward ensuring that every hardworking and credit-worthy American enjoys a fair chance at becoming a homeowner," U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson said in a statement.

This belief in the abiding value of owning a home is one shared by the American people; in fact, in a survey of 11,300 registered voters conducted by the National Association of Homebuilders, 70 percent of respondents stated that owning a home was of high value to them.

While homeownership is important to most Americans, many still find it difficult to purchase a home. In an issued proclamation announcing National Homeownership Month, the White House stated, “Many young families are unable to achieve the independence they desire because they have difficulty saving for a down payment, overcoming regulatory burdens, or gaining access to adequate credit.  These challenges are even more pronounced for minorities, whose homeownership rates remain substantially below those of their fellow Americans.” In spite of these struggles, the resources made available during National Homeownership Month are working to change that.

Although June is a great time to learn more about homeownership, current homeowners and those striving to join their ranks do not need to save all of their questions for June. Inquiries are essential to making homeownership a reality and can be made at any time. Get started with the resources available on the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website, or talk to a local realtor today!