A strong housing market is good for the community

The immediate past president of the National Association of Realtors was in Havre last week, praising local politicians who support the realtors' cause and lauding local realtors for their efforts.

But just as important, Maurice "Moe" Veissi was here to remind people of the importance of his industry to the economy and the social fabric of the country.

He said the long drought in home sales is winding down. Though the home-buying recession has lasted longer than anyone had hoped, there are signs things are improving.

He was full of praise for Sen. Jon Tester, who was instrumental in getting a five-year extension of flood insurance legislation, making it was easier for banks to finance purchases of homes that are in the floodplain.

And he was very complimentary of Havre realtors who he said have been more active than most in making the case for their industry — both to political leaders and the public at large.

But perhaps the most important part of his mission was to talk about home ownership and what it means to the individual and society as a whole.

Certainly home ownership is not for everyone. For a variety of reasons, many people pick alternative forms of living arrangements.

But for many, owning a home is a key part of the American dream. People who own homes are more likely to be invested in the community and more likely to be involved in community organizations and projects, and their children are more likely to do well in school.

That's why it is good to see that the real estate business is coming back.

It's not only good for the economy, it's good for the fabric of the community.