It seems that Americans are continuing to dream of homeownership, at least according to JPMorgan Chase’s recent survey.

A total of 87% of those surveyed said owning a home is something they dream about.

“Owning a home is at the heart of most Americans’ dreams,” said Kevin Watters, CEO of mortgage banking at JPMorgan Chase. “And people are saving as much as possible to achieve homeownership.”

Of those surveyed, 66% believe housing is a good financial investment and 75% see it as a crucial part of raising a family.

“Owning a home will not only give my husband and me pride and roots, but it will also bring pride in my children and respect from my friends and family,” said one respondent.

Compared to six months ago, nearly two times as many potential first-time homebuyers are optimistic about being able to put money down on a home over the next six months.

Overall, 56% of consumers believe their finances will improve over the next six months, while only 8% believe they will worsen.

“First-time home buyers are crucial to the housing market and the overall economy – and to their communities,” Watters said. “As families buy their first home, they are investing in their communities and enable other families to move up. That will eventually spur more new construction, generating additional jobs.”

Original post at http://www.housingwire.com/fastnews/2013/03/15/survey-shows-homeownership-still-american-dream.