Building Dreams: Celebrating National Homeownership Month in Carver County

Access to adequate housing is a hallmark of a community’s ability to deliver an acceptable quality of life for its residents. Endless studies report a link between housing and improving numerous metrics: childhood and intergenerational poverty, individual economic mobility and regional economic growth, to name a few. In Carver County, MN, the Carver County Community Development Agency (CDA) is the local government agency administering numerous programs focused on the housing environment. 

The Carver County CDA calls attention to its efforts and numerous other organizations this June during National Homeownership Month to promote the importance of homeownership and housing development resources that can set persons of all ages on the pathway to stability and prosperity.

June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to recognize the significance of homeownership and its pivotal role in strengthening communities nationwide. This month-long celebration reminds people of the many benefits of owning a home and its positive impact on families, neighborhoods, and local economies. 

CDA Housing Services

The Carver County CDA understands the profound impact homeownership can have on individuals and communities. As a leading economic development corporation, the Carver County CDA actively supports initiatives promoting responsible and sustainable homeownership for all. Since 2009, the Carver County Community Land Trust (CCCLT) program has helped provide secure, affordable access to land and housing for potential home buyers with low-to-moderate incomes, typically quantified as those earning 50-80% of the area’s median income. Today, the CLT has 42 homes scattered throughout Carver County. The CCCLT Brochure is a complete resource for further information.

Other Carver County CDA programs and services are designed to assist potential homeowners, from financial education to homebuyer assistance, at every step of the journey.

• Homeownership education is the single most effective tool for achieving successful homeownership. The Carver County CDA offers resources to help potential homeowners understand the financial aspects of purchasing a home, whether that’s through budgeting techniques, attending workshops or understanding credit management and mortgage options. Browse the programs here.
• Homebuyer Assistance: The Carver County CDA can connect individuals to financial payment assistance programs, low-interest loans and more, making homeownership more accessible to a broader range of people. Read about the potential opportunities here.

The Importance of Owning a Home

Homeownership has numerous benefits extending far beyond the individual homeowner. Homeowners will likely participate in community activities, build roots, and attain financial security and wealth. The equity accumulated in a home can be a source of funds for future investments or unexpected expenses.

Homeownership can also improve children's educational outcomes, as stable housing is often associated with better school performance. Additionally, it can have positive health outcomes, as homeowners typically experience lower stress levels and a greater sense of security. NAR, or the National Association of Realtors, researches and analyzes the housing market and its broader effects on the economy. According to NAR calculations, one new job is supported by every two home sales.

The Importance of Housing Development

A supply of safe, secure housing options is critical to a community’s quality of life. While National Homeownership Month is a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home, it is also appropriate to recognize the efforts of local stakeholders to develop that supply and opportunity. Through the efforts of organizations like the Carver County CDA, more people have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of accessible, affordable housing and homeownership. 

As we commemorate this month, we reaffirm our commitment to building more robust, vibrant communities through sustainable and inclusive homeownership initiatives. Visit the Carver County CDA website for information on resources and services or the Choose Carver County website to understand life in the region today. Or contact our staff to learn how we can help.