Affordable Homeownership Outcome Evidence Briefs

The resources on this page help explain the impact of affordable homeownership based on existing research and evidence demonstrating the impact of Habitat's work.
 Our evidence briefs are concise, research-backed resources that explore the impact of homeownership and related topics on social and financial outcomes. 

Evidence Briefs

  • Four people, a woman and three men, smiling outdoors in front of a house.

    Who has access to homeownership?

    Home prices are increasing rapidly but household incomes have not kept pace, putting homeownership out of reach for many.

    Evidence Brief
  • A group of diverse people celebrating outside in front of a newly constructed building. Some are holding balloons that say 'Congratulations' and many are smiling and raising their hands in joy. There's a red ribbon across the sidewalk indicating a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

    How does homeownership impact civic & social engagement?

    Affordable housing improves residential stability, reduces forced moves, and motivates residents to improve their communities.

    Evidence Brief
  • A young girl with long brown hair, wearing a pink dress with lace, is smiling and waving from a doorway, with her face turned slightly to the side.

    How does housing affect children's education?

    Learn more about key factors to improving educational outcomes through housing in populations with low incomes.

    Evidence Brief
  • A smiling family of four standing outside a house with a yellow door. The family includes two young girls, a woman, and a young man. The girls are wearing pink shirts with jackets, and the woman and young man are also smiling.

    How does homeownership contribute to wealth building?

    Read the evidence on how homeownership contributes to wealth building and learn how Habitat is helping families prosper.

    Evidence Brief
  • A group of six children of diverse ethnic backgrounds standing in front of a house, smiling at the camera.

    How do racial inequalities limit homeownership opportunities?

    Black and Hispanic students remain concentrated in segregated, high-poverty neighborhoods with low-performing schools.

    Evidence Brief
  • Bar chart showing increased energy efficiency of household appliances from 1981 to 2013, with appliances like room air conditioner, freezer, clothes washer, dishwasher, and refrigerator, with percentage increases labeled on each bar.

    How does housing affect energy efficiency?

    Households with low incomes often live in older homes that are less energy-efficient, making a significant dent in their budget.

    Evidence Brief
  • A woman with curly hair smiling and holding a yellow sheet of paper in an office setting. There are documents and colorful charts on the table, and a whiteboard with writing in the background.

    What impact does homebuyer education and counseling have on homeownership outcomes?

    Homeowners acquire most of their wealth through the purchase of their homes. Sustained ownership leads to higher wealth accumulation over time.

    Evidence Brief