Homeownership Builds Wealth and Stronger Communities
Judie Docs, Executive Officer – CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) www.ncbia.com
Every June, the residential construction industry celebrates National Homeownership Month, a time to highlight the importance of homeownership to individuals and families nationwide. For years, homeownership has been central to the American dream and how people connect with their local communities.
Homeownership improves quality of life for many individuals and increases stability in our community, as owners are less likely than renters to move frequently. Locally, homeowners tend to settle in, make friends, get to know their neighbors and develop a sense of community. Through volunteering, school and community activities, and property maintenance, homeowners contribute to creating a strong and healthy neighborhood.
There are also significant financial benefits of homeownership. Building equity when the value of a home appreciates is one of the largest long-term advantages. Lorain, Erie, and Huron County residents count on their home equity to fund retirement, their children’s education, and other needs.
Homeownership remains a priority across generations. Nationwide, the U.S. homeownership rate was 65.7% in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the Census Bureau’s Housing Vacancy Survey (HVS).
This is especially true for the Silent and Baby Boomer generations. These groups have a high homeownership rate (78.6%) and own 34.1% of all owner-occupied housing units in the U.S., according to the latest American Community Survey. As a group, they hold an estimated $13.8 trillion dollars in housing value or roughly one-third of the total residential property value in the country.
Many younger households are also making gains in the market. The homeownership rate for those under the age of 35 rose to 37.9% in the last quarter of 2025, a 1.6 percentage point increase over 2024, according to the HVS. Additionally, the first-time buyer share rose to 34% in February 2026, up from 31% in January, according to NAHB analysis of data from the National Association of Realtors.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a longtime owner, homeownership is an investment in yourself, your family, and your community.
For more information about the residential construction industry or to connect with a builder, contact the NCBIA or go to Virtual Parade of Homes | North Coast Building Industry Association – NCBIA
To find a professional builder in your area, contact your local home builders’ association at 440-934-1090 or www.ncbia.com, or visit nahb.org/Other/Consumer-Resources.
We are your not-for-profit association serving Lorain, Erie & Huron counties. Using an NCBIA member is an important step in protecting your investment. If you’re unsure whether your contractor is an NCBIA member—or if you’re looking for a trusted professional—visit www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090. Be sure to check out our job posting board under the Industry tab as well.
Explore from Anywhere: NCBIA’s 24/7 Virtual Parade of Homes
Our Virtual Parade of Homes allows you to tour new homes and communities from local builders anytime, on your computer or mobile device. We know your time is valuable, and this convenient tool helps you find a home or community that fits your lifestyle—on your schedule.
Like us—or better yet, share us—on Facebook and stay connected with everything happening in our local building industry.