The Hidden Impact of Buying or Selling a Home

When buying or selling a home, most people focus on personal factors—finding the right location, getting the best price, and making the transition smooth for their family. But what many don’t realize is that every real estate transaction has a much larger impact.

Your decision to move doesn’t just affect you—it strengthens your local economy, creates jobs, and helps businesses thrive.

How Home Sales Fuel the Economy

Every year, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) releases a report on the financial impact of home sales, and the numbers are staggering:

• Buying an existing (previously lived-in) home contributes over $60,000 to the local economy.
• Buying a newly built home generates over $125,000 in economic activity.

But where does all that money go? It’s not just about the purchase price—it supports a network of professionals, businesses, and public services that rely on home sales to stay strong.

The Jobs Created by Home Buying and Selling

Behind every home sale, there’s an entire ecosystem of workers and industries benefiting from your move. According to Robert Dietz, Chief Economist at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB):

“. . . housing is a significant job creator. In fact, for every single-family home built, enough economic activity is generated to sustain three full-time jobs for a year . . .”

Here are just a few of the professionals who play a role in the home buying and selling process:

1. Construction and Home Improvement Workers

New homes require builders, electricians, plumbers, roofers, and landscapers. Even existing homes create opportunities for painters, flooring experts, and renovation specialists.

2. Real Estate Professionals

Agents, brokers, and property managers help navigate the process, ensuring smooth transactions and fair market deals.

3. Mortgage Lenders and Bankers

Home purchases drive financial activity, keeping mortgage lenders, bankers, and underwriters busy.

4. Legal and Title Experts

From title companies to real estate attorneys, professionals work behind the scenes to ensure contracts and property rights are secure.

5. Retailers and Small Businesses

New homeowners invest in furniture, home décor, appliances, and landscaping services—boosting local businesses.

6. Local Government and Public Services

Every home sale contributes to property taxes, which help fund schools, emergency services, and infrastructure improvements.

The data shows that if you buy an existing (previously lived-in) home, you’re giving the local economy a boost of just over $60K. And if you buy a newly built home, that number goes up to over $125K (see visual below):

A Strong Housing Market Builds a Stronger Community

Beyond job creation, real estate transactions play a critical role in shaping and improving local communities. Here’s how:

✅ Boosting Local Businesses: Buyers and sellers invest in home-related services, retail, and dining—keeping money in the community.

✅ Strengthening Neighborhoods: A thriving housing market improves property values, attracts new businesses, and enhances public spaces.

✅ Funding Schools and Services: Property tax revenue supports education, roads, parks, and emergency services, improving overall quality of life.

More Than Just a Transaction

Imagine stepping into your new home, knowing that your move helped a local contractor keep their team working, supported a small business, and contributed to your town’s growth. That’s the true impact of buying or selling a home—it’s more than just a personal milestone, it’s an investment in your community’s future.

Bottom Line

Moving isn’t just about finding a new place to live—it’s about strengthening your town, supporting local jobs, and making a difference for more people than you might realize.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home this year, take pride in knowing your decision will have a lasting impact. Connect with a local real estate expert today and be a part of something bigger than just a move!