Owning your own home is great.

• There’s the benefit to your health – living in poor housing increases exposure to toxic substances, increases injuries, and decreases mental health.
• Homeowners report higher life satisfaction and higher self esteem.
• Homeowners are more politically active than non-homeowners and are more likely to participate in voluntary organizations and to attend church.
• Buying a home costs less than renting a home.
• The children of homeowners are more likely to stay in school and have higher levels of academic achievement than the children of renters.
• Owning a home provides family stability.
• Then there are the tax benefits. Homeowners can deduct:
  • points paid on your mortgage.
  • interest paid on your mortgage.
  • property taxes paid on your residence.
  • origination fees on your mortgage.

What’s your favorite thing about owning your own home?