Still Want to Own

Even in the grip of the biggest housing crisis since the Great Depression, Americans remain optimistic about homeownership. Sixty-seven percent still believe housing is a safe investment, according to the latest Fannie Mae National Housing Survey fielded last summer. Eighty-four percent believe owning a home makes more sense than renting.

Of course, most Americans--and most survey respondents--own their home. Naturally, homeowners will think they made the right choice. So how do renters feel about homeownership? According to the survey results, they are less positive than the average person but still upbeat. Fifty-four percent of renters think buying a home is a safe investment. Sixty-nine percent think owning a home makes more sense than renting. Fifty-nine percent of renters think it is a good time to buy a home. But only 38 percent say they are likely to buy a home in the next three years.

Source: Fannie Mae National Housing Survey, June-July 2010