More Americans Chose to Own a Home Than Rent in First Qtr 2017

According to the latest report from the US Census Bureau, more Americans chose purchasing a home over signing a lease to rent in the first quarter of 2017. This marks the first time since 2006 that the number of new homeowner households outpaced the number of new renter households.

Of the 1.22 million new households that were formed in the first quarter, 854,000 were new-owner households making the jump straight to homeownership rather than renting first.

That means that the homeownership rate amongst new households was 70%!

This is huge news as the national homeownership rate is currently 63.6% and has only ever come close to this figure in the second quarter of 2004 when the homeownership rate reached an all-time high of 69.2%.

A recent Wall Street Journal article pointed to the uptick in first-time homebuyers coming to market as a reason for the jump:

“The return of first-time buyers is accelerating. In all they have accounted for 42% of buyers this year, up from 38% in 2015 and 31% at the lowest point during the recent housing cycle in 2011, according to Fannie Mae, which defines first-time buyers as anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past three years.”

Ralph McLaughlin, Trulia’s Chief Economist, had this to say about what a bump in new homeowner households could mean for the housing market:

“Strong renter household formation is one of the reasons why the homeownership rate has continued to drop since the onset of the housing crisis, so any sign this trend is reversing is something to take note of. We look forward to future releases of these data to determine whether this is a statistical blip or a trend.”

Bottom Line

As more and more potential first-time buyers realize their ability to buy a home without having to rent first, not only will the homeownership rate benefit, but so will the overall economy.   Give me a call to get started on your path to homeownership – J.P. Cook – 602-510-6430.

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18300 N Shimmer Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$465,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,627 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6654095

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Desired Madera model with great room floor plan, and heated salt water pool! Lush landscaping backyard provide plenty of privacy when frolicking in the salt water pool. Home has been professionally modified to a large open great room, ideal for a larger table and game area. Inside features plantation shutters throughout, GE profile kitchen appliances, additional kitchen cabinets with built-in desk, a bay window in the primary bedroom, two sinks in primary bath, and inside laundry with utility sink. Garage has built-in and workbench. The pebble-tec pool pool with its attractive water feature is heated and self-cleaning. Your tropical backyard has an extended covered patio with pull-down shades and strategically planted foliage that provide privacy.

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3789 E Yorkshire Circle San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6658819

Property Type Single Family Residence

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PRICE ADJUSTMENT -This delightful property is nestled on a premium corner lot! Immaculate interior boasts vaulted ceilings, tons of tile flooring, fresh/new carpet in all the right places, graceful archways, & a spacious living/dining room w/French doors to the custom AZ room. The kitchen was update w/newer appliances, recessed lighting, granite counters, & ample white cabinetry w/crown molding. Super island w/a breakfast bar & a breakfast nook is ideal for casual dining. The generously sized AZ Room is bathed in sunlight with ceiling fans, excellent for year-round entertainment. Retreat to the main suite, w/ AZ room access, a full ensuite w/dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Delightful backyard has artificial turf landscape & looks like a beautiful park!

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3841 Turkey Trail Lakeside, AZ 85929

$465,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,072 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659919

Property Type Manufactured Home

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Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and functionality. With an open concept lies a kitchen, which boasts recent upgrades, providing both modern aesthetics and practicality. Stainless steel appliances, sleek countertops, and ample cabinet space make this kitchen a haven for both aspiring chefs and busy families. The home features a thoughtful layout, with a spacious living room perfect for hosting gatherings and a separate family room that provides a more intimate space for relaxation. The family room opens up possibilities for cozy movie nights or quiet evenings with loved ones. Newly installed heating and cooling systems ensure year-round comfort, allowing you to enjoy every season without compromise. The large windows throughout the home allow natural light to flood in, creating a bright and airy ambiance. Outside, the expansive fenced backyard offers a private retreat. With an RV gate and hook-ups, it's a dream for adventure enthusiasts looking to hit the open road. For those with a penchant for hobbies or extra storage space, the property comes complete with a spacious 3-car garage and 2 additional outbuildings. Whether you're a car enthusiast, DIY enthusiast, or simply need extra space, these structures provide endless possibilities.

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43317 W Wallner Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$465,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,401 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663086

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Your dream home is finally here! You'll LOVE to own this one-of-a-kind two-story residence in Rancho El Dorado! Starting with a 3-car garage, low-care front yard, and stone accents. Be delighted by an inviting interior showcasing a combined living/dining room and a formal family room paired with tile flooring in all the right places. The impeccable kitchen is equipped with recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, mosaic backsplash, white cabinetry, a peninsula with a breakfast bar, and a breakfast nook. Head upstairs, to discover the HUGE loft offering endless possibilities! The bright main bedroom boasts plush carpet and an ensuite with dual sinks. The expansive backyard provides a covered patio and pavers. A rare find like this will surely impress you!

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