Every three years, the Federal Reserve conducts their Survey of Consumer Finances. Data is collected across all economic and social groups. The latest survey data covers 2013-2016.
The study revealed that the median net worth of a homeowner is $231,400 – a 15 percent increase since 2013. At the same time, the median net worth of renters decreased by 5 percent ($5,200 today compared to $5,500 in 2013).
These numbers reveal that the net worth of a homeowner is over 44 times greater than that of a renter.
Owning a home is a great way to build family wealth.
As we’ve said before, simply put, homeownership is a form of ‘forced savings.’ Every time you pay your mortgage, you are contributing to your net worth by increasing the equity in your home.
That is why Gallup reported that Americans picked real estate as the best long-term investment for the fifth year in a row. According to this year’s results, 34 percent of Americans chose real estate. Stocks followed at 26 percent, and then gold, savings accounts/CDs, or bonds.
Bottom Line
If you want to find out how you can use your monthly housing cost to increase your family’s wealth, contact a real estate professional, a Realtor member of the Staten Island Board of Realtors, to guide you through the process.
The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in articles or videos posted or shared by The Staten Island Board of Realtors® (SIBOR) are not intended to be construed as investment advice. SIBOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. SIBOR will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
