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Owning a home has been a part of the American Dream for decades.  If you are still unsure if homeownership is the move for you, read these ten reasons to buy.

1. Low Interest Rates. Interest rates are currently at historic lows.  Over the course of your loan, you'll pay less interest and monthly payments will be a smaller, more manageable amount.

2. Mortgage Interest Deduction:  As of now, the interest you pay over the course of a year is deductible on your income tax.

3. Stability:  Studies show that home ownership increases community involvement.  It also leads to safer neighborhood and higher graduation rates.

4. Affordability:  Coupled with the low interest rates, affordability is the highest it has been in years. Prices remain low in many areas. You can get more house for the money.

5. Paying To Own:   Instead of paying a landlord, invest in your future.  Each month you will pay toward a home you will eventually own that will have worth and value.

6. Appreciation: Average appreciation rates vary widely depending on the local market and demand, but an increase of 4 to 6 percent annually is considered average. This means the longer you stay in your home, the more your home will be worth.

7. Home equity:  Equity is the amount of value beyond what you owe.  Each month you will gain equity as you pay down principle.  You will also gain equity as the market value of your home appreciates.  You will be able to borrow against the equity to finance repairs.

8. Land:  Owning your own home means you will have your own land to cultivate.

9. Roots:  Owning property can give you a sense of belonging to a neighborhood and to a community.

10. Monthly Payments:  Over time you will begin to pay off the mortgage.  Once your home is paid off you won't have monthly payments.  Apart from insurance, property taxes, and repairs, monthly expenses are minimal.  In addition, monthly house payments may be less today than you will pay in rent.