Nationwide Open House Weekend Set for June 4-5

RALEIGH, N.C., May 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Eight in 10 adults agree that buying a home is the best long-term investment a person can make. That is according to a recent nationwide Pew Research Center survey, demonstrating the value that Americans continue to place on home ownership.

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To help potential home buyers realize the dream of owning a home, the Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® (RRAR) is participating in REALTOR® Nationwide Open House Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 4-5. During that weekend REALTORS® across the country will hold open houses from coast to coast, aiming to focus attention on the benefits of home ownership to families, communities and the economy.

"Home ownership benefits individuals and families, as well as strengthens our communities," says Linda Trevor, President of RRAR. "The decision to own a home is a personal one, but we believe that anyone who is able and willing should have the opportunity to pursue that dream. The REALTOR® Nationwide Open House Weekend will give REALTORS® the opportunity to bring buyers and sellers together and help them connect with local residents about the housing issues that matter most to the people in our community."

A strong majority of renters surveyed in the Pew Research Center study – 81 percent – said they would prefer to one day buy a home. In addition, respondents rated being able to own a home as the top long-term financial goal followed by being able to live comfortably in retirement, pay for a child's college education, and leave inheritance for children.

"Home ownership is how many American families begin to accumulate wealth," says Trevor. "In fact, owning a home is one of the best ways to build long-term wealth; it provides both equity accumulation and tax benefits over time."

REALTORS® are being asked to hold open houses in various local neighborhoods throughout Wake County and the rest of North Carolina the weekend of June 4-5 to provide guidance and insights into the social and financial benefits of home ownership. They can also answer questions about the local housing market and the home buying and selling process.

"REALTORS® are leading advocates for home ownership," says Trevor. "Through this nationwide event we will not only educate the public on the value of owning a home, but also help those who are striving to become home owners take steps toward achieving their goals."

SOURCE Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS