It's a combination of factors. First off, culturally, it's just one of those "things you do" if you're pursuing the American Dream. Many people believe that own

It's a combination of factors. First off, culturally, it's just one of those "things you do" if you're pursuing the American Dream. Many people believe that owning your own home is one of the major milestones to living successfully. Secondly, for most people in the US who own homes, their home is their only source of equity or savings. Very few jobs in the US offer any type of pension, and many people don't have enough left over at the end of the month to put away in an independent retirement savings or investment account.