Week highlights homeownership for 50th year

Every spring since 1952, Realtors across America have led their communities, townships and neighborhoods in a celebration of homeownership and private property rights. Known as American Home Week, this year's observance in April marked the 50th anniversary of this tribute to one of the cornerstones of democracy.

According to the National Association of Realtors, American Home Week is a celebration aimed at reminding citizens of their constitutional freedom to own private property. During the week, Realtors sponsored activities such as property improvement projects to aid the needy, essay contests centering on the theme of homeownership and special seminars on home-buying and home-selling trends.

"The heart of American Home Week has always been to remind Realtors and citizens of their rights and responsibilities to work together in creating a positive community in which to live and work," said NAR President Martin Ed-wards Jr.

American Home Week began in 1952 as the "Build America Better" program, with a focus on re-energizing run-down neighborhoods in urban areas. By 1954, the program gained wide recognition and was cited in the Municipal Yearbook of International City Managers as a major development in the field of housing conservation.

In 1956, the program was renamed "Realtor Week" to highlight the differences between Realtors and nonmembers, as well as to encourage the involvement of Realtors in civic, social and patriotic values of their communities.

In 1975, the name was changed to "Private Property Week" to emphasize every American's right to own and transfer property. Finally, in 1986 the name was changed to American Home Week, reflecting the most popular perception of private property the home.

"Realtors are in the business of attracting new citizens to their communities," Edwards said. "They really care about making their neighborhoods strong and safe and vibrant."

Edwards noted that because homeowners put down roots, they tend to participate in community affairs and the business of local government. That commitment to making the democratic process work leads to better local communities.

NAR research indicates that homeowners are voters and that they volunteer their time for political and charitable causes more frequently than renters do. For homeowners, the value of their homes the largest investment many of them will make in their lifetimes creates an incentive to stay abreast of local government actions.

"In short, owning a home gives people greater reason to care and that makes a huge difference," Edwards said.