‘Desire to own’ still main driver of home buying

The primary reason for purchasing a home was the desire to own a home and enjoy the benefits of home ownership, according to the 2011 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers released by the National Association of Realtors.

As expected, younger buyers placed a higher priority on affordability. The primary reason to purchase a home among repeat buyers is often because of life changes: the desire for a larger home, a job-relocation or move, desire to be closer to family and friends, or a change in a family situation.

“Even in a down housing market, homeownership remains a core American value, with the vast majority of citizens who do not currently own a home saying they want to buy a home,” said Bob Nielsen, president of the National Association of Home Builders.