From Yahoo Finance: 2025-05-28 16:03:00

A growing percentage of American homeowners now own their homes outright, with about 38.8% of owner-occupied homes in the U.S. mortgage-free as of 2024, a 40% increase since 2012. Over half of these homeowners are above 65, providing financial stability and a storehouse of wealth.

For those mortgage-free, the home represents 100% equity, potentially worth much more than the initial purchase price. New investing platforms like Homeshares and Arrived offer ways to tap into the real estate market without the hassle of property management.

Real estate investing can lead to lasting wealth, with Americans consistently ranking it as the best long-term investment. Strategic investments in commercial and residential properties can provide immediate returns and long-term growth opportunities. Platforms like First National Realty Partners enable accredited investors to access commercial real estate with minimum investments of $50,000.

Reverse mortgages offer a creative way to tap into home equity for retirement funding, with the average homeowner having $313,000 in equity as of March 2025. By leveraging home equity through a reverse mortgage, homeowners can supplement income, pay off debt, or fund renovations without making monthly mortgage payments.



Read more at Yahoo Finance: This is the true value of having a fully paid-off home in America