April 20-21, 2013 - Nationwide Open House Event Spotlights Home Ownership
Eight in 10 adults agree that buying a home is the best long-term investment a person can make. That is according to a recent nationwide Pew Research Center survey, demonstrating the value that Americans continue to place on home ownership.
To help potential home buyers realize their dream of owning a home, the Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS® is participating in Realtor® Nationwide Open House Weekend on April 20-21, 2013. During that weekend Realtors® across the country will hold open houses from coast to coast, aiming to focus attention on the benefits of home ownership to families, communities and the economy.
"Home ownership benefits individuals and families, as well as strengthens our communities," Julie Rietberg, CEO of the Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS®. "The decision to own a home is a personal one, but we believe that anyone who is able and willing should have the opportunity to pursue that dream. The Realtor® Nationwide Open House Weekend will give Realtors® the opportunity to bring buyers and sellers together and help them connect with local residents about the housing issues that matter most to the people in our community."
A strong majority of renters surveyed in the Pew Research Center study - 81 percent - said they would prefer to one day buy a home. In addition, respondents rated being able to own a home as the top long-term financial goal followed by being able to live comfortably in retirement, pay for a child's college education, and leave inheritance for children.
"Home ownership is how many American families begin to accumulate wealth," said Rietberg. "In fact, owning a home is one of the best ways to build long-term wealth; it provides both equity accumulation and tax benefits over time."
Realtors® will hold open houses in various local neighborhoods throughout West Michigan the weekend of April 20-21, 2013 to provide guidance and insights into the social and financial benefits of home ownership. They can also answer questions about the local housing market and the home buying and selling process.
"Realtors® are leading advocates for home ownership," said Rietberg. "Through this nationwide event we will not only educate the public on the value of owning a home, but also help those who are striving to become home owners take steps toward achieving their goals."
To look for open houses being held in your area during Nationwide Open House Weekend, please visit the Open House Search section of the GRAR website.