Having a place to call home is one of life’s basic needs. Housing, in all its forms, provides a sense of stability and security, the very foundation of our lives. Beyond safety and solace, however, are some of the most positive benefits of housing.

First, there’s the obvious physical health benefits associated with a secure living environment. Apart from being warm and dry, individual housing can encourage a range of positive activities: access to a backyard might lead to gardening, or the front door might provide a daily chance for on-foot exercise. In a more immediate sense, even a small increase in square footage will allow for easier movement: a cramped kitchen can make even the simplest task more difficult, while a spacious kitchen can inspire moments of culinary creativity.

Second, is the range of mental health benefits that come with ownership of a living space. There is something indescribably empowering about owning or renting one’s own space, knowing that no matter what else is going on in life, this is your place. This is important for developing a sense of autonomy and identity for the individual— particularly for younger people, who can begin to explore their individual tastes and interests, creating a