Information and Options Regarding the Most Basic of Needs – Having a Place to Live – Regardless of Whether One Rents or Buys
Frank Keating, President and CEO of the American Bankers Association
(Washington, D.C., Wednesday, June 12, 2013) – The share of Americans who own their own homes dropped to 65 percent in the first quarter – the lowest level since 1995. That’s no doubt a reflection of economic conditions, as well as a realization by consumers that sometimes renting is better than buying.
So this year ABA is declaring June “American Housing Month” because it’s important to highlight the issues and options regarding the most basic of needs – having a place to live – regardless of whether one rents or buys.
Helpful Tools
- ABA’s financial calculators can help you decide how much home you can afford, if you should rent or buy, if you should refinance and more.
- ABA’s Budgeting worksheet (also available in Spanish) can help you determine how much money you have to spend.
- Use ABA’s Family Savings Goal worksheet (also available in Spanish) to get the whole family involved in financial planning.
Consumer Help
If you are a homeowner who is having trouble paying your mortgage, contact your lender, visit HopeNow, or access ABA’s consumer help lines and websites page.
Housing Month Press Material