Why Housing is Still America’s #1 Wealth Creation Tool

And Why Your Journey Can Start Today

There’s a reason the phrase “the American Dream” still brings to mind a home with a yard—even if the porch swing has been swapped for solar panels and Wi-Fi. Owning a home isn’t just about pride or permanence. For most Americans, it’s the most reliable way to build wealth across generations.

At Feritas, we believe in reclaiming the tools that help people thrive—and homeownership is one of the fiercest tools in the box. It’s not always easy. It’s not always fast. But the data doesn’t lie: housing remains the #1 wealth creation tool in America.

Let’s talk about why that’s still true—and why your journey might be closer than you think.

The Wealth Gap: Homeowners vs. Renters

According to the Federal Reserve’s 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, the median net worth of a U.S. homeowner is $396,200, compared to just $10,400 for renters. That’s a staggering difference—and it’s not just because homeowners earn more (though that can be a factor). It’s because the very structure of homeownership builds equity over time.

Each monthly mortgage payment is like a forced savings account. As you pay down your loan and your home value (hopefully) appreciates, you’re steadily building ownership—something renters simply don’t get in return for their payments.

Real Estate Appreciates—Even Through Recession

Over the last 50 years, despite economic recessions, inflation spikes, and market downturns, U.S. housing prices have trended steadily upward. According to the S&P/Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index, home values have increased by an average of 4-5% annually since the 1970s.

That appreciation, coupled with leverage (you’re building wealth on the full value of the home, not just the down payment), makes real estate a uniquely powerful asset.

It’s Not Just About Wealth—It’s About Stability

Wealth is more than numbers in a bank account. It’s the power to say yes to opportunities. It’s the cushion to weather storms. Homeownership often leads to increased civic engagement, stronger educational outcomes for children, and greater emotional well-being.

And for Black and Brown families—who have historically been excluded from wealth-building opportunities through redlining and lending discrimination—buying a home is more than a transaction. It’s an act of justice.

But Isn’t It Too Late for Me?

We hear that question a lot. And here’s the truth: it’s not too late. You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to be wealthy. You need a plan, a little bit of grit, and people who will walk the road with you.

At Feritas, we specialize in helping first-time homebuyers—especially those who never thought it was possible. We help clients clean up credit, build a realistic budget, access down payment assistance, and navigate the often-intimidating process with clarity and confidence.

Here’s the Bottom Line:

Housing still works. It still builds wealth. And for most people, it’s still the best shot at breaking cycles of financial instability and building something that lasts.

You don’t have to do it alone.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’re one year out or already browsing listings, Feritas LLC is here to walk with you. We’ll help you face the wild things—debt, doubt, paperwork—and turn your first-time homeownership dream into a plan.

📞 Schedule a free discovery session today.

📧 Email us at summer@feritasllc.com

🌐 Learn more at www.feritasllc.com

Feritas LLC

Face the fierce. Build what lasts.