Julie Zappone, REALTOR

American homeowners remain upbeat about home ownership, and many renters are warming up to the idea of owning their own homes, according to a recent survey by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) conducted by Harris Interactive. 87% of homeowners and 64% of renters agree that owning a home provides a healthy, stable environment for raising a family. 77% of homeowners and 55% of renters believe that home ownership helps them meet long-term financial goals, while 70% of homeowners and 48% of renters believe it helps them realize the American Dream. The majority of homeowners (95%) and 72% of renters say that in the long run, it makes more sense to own a home rather than rent. 88% of current home owners say their ownership experience has been positive or very positive, while only 51% of renters have had positive experiences with renting. More than six out of 10 renters say they are at least somewhat likely to purchase a home in the future, and 24% are extremely likely to do so. Nearly three-fourths of young adult renters (74%) say they are likely to buy a home at some point in the future, while 43% of renters plan to purchase a home in the next three to five years. Many renters cite several obstacles to homeownership, however, such as a lack of money for a down payment and closing costs, finding a home that is affordable and job security.