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June is National Homeownership Month, a time of year when housing advocates highlight the importance of homeownership and its impact upon the lives of American families, local neighborhoods, and the national economy. The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® (SILVAR) and its nearly 5,000 members engaged in the real estate business on the Peninsula and in the South Bay are staunch advocates for homeownership and homeowners in Silicon Valley.

“Homeownership is an investment in the community,” said SILVAR President Joanne Fraser. “When more people own homes, everyone benefits. For most American families, their home is their largest investment. Homeownership builds wealth and serves as the cornerstone of health and security.”

Homeownership provides tax advantages and the opportunity to build equity. Moreover, homeownership provides social benefits for families and communities. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, homeowners move far less frequently than renters, making it easier to build community networks and support systems. This results in more stability for families, better school performance by children living in owned homes, a higher rate of high school graduation and higher earning, better physical, psychological and emotional health outcomes, a higher membership in voluntary organizations, and greater social interaction in their communities.

Fraser noted during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, having a home became more important to many families than ever before. “The home became a place to live and work as many companies allowed their employees to work from home. This ultimately contributed to the state’s current housing market boom.”

At a recent market data presentation for local associations, California Association of REALTORS® Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine said the state’s housing market boom is a double-edged sword. Levine indicated California is the second worst state for overcrowded housing and fifth lowest homeowner vacancy ratio in the nation.

In April, California’s median price hit over $8 million. Levine said while good for sellers, this has impacted housing affordability. “Buyers are falling farther and farther behind.”

Fraser is hopeful additional help may be on the way. “The state senate’s ‘Building Opportunities for All’ housing package is expected to help expedite building of more housing, create jobs and stimulate economic development projects. President Joe Biden’s First Down Payment Homebuyer Tax Credit proposal could be significant in aiding first-time homebuyers. With home prices rising higher than ever, any down payment assistance helps families looking to buy.”