1.1. The Pluses of Owning a Home

For many people, home ownership is the ultimate dream. It means you've got a permanent place in the world—somewhere you can raise kids, gather family and friends, and unwind from a hectic day. Whether you're in a one-bedroom condo or a turreted mansion, owning your own home means comfort, safety, and pleasure.

Owning your own home comes with practical benefits, too. You can borrow against the value of your house, take impressive tax breaks, and treat your house as a long-term investment.