Don't forget the 'h' word!

I have listened to local politicians and public officials talk about what he/she is going to do to make Portland a better place to live. What I haven't heard is the 'h' word, homeownership. Why is it when house prices are at a 7 year low and interest rates on a 30 year mortgage are 4 percent, that none of them say, "buy a home"? If he/she so believes in Portland and its opportunities, then encourage people to buy homes and share the opportunities. When rents are on par with mortgage payments, then it makes common sense to buy a home. Furthermore, if politicians make all these improvements in Portland, then new homeowners will see their houses appreciate.

For years, I heard from media pundits and politicians say that homeownership wasn't such a good idea. Well it isn't a good idea if its a bad loan and no one checked to see if the borrower could afford it. Homeownership can be done the right way. And when it is, neighborhoods, families and cities all benefit because homeowners invest into the fabric and economy of Portland. But somehow that has gotten forgotten in the past few years. It is time for those running for offices and those in office to use their 'bully pulpits' and use the 'h' word. Take the fear out of home buying and remind people that Portland is home. Buy one.