Homeownership rates among Native Americans have risen but they are still below the national average.

According to Federal National Mortgage Association, Fannie Mae, the homeownership rate in Indian Country is 41 percent. Nationally, it's 68 percent.

About 53 percent of Native applicants were denied loans in 2004, compared to 42 percent of whites, according to the most recent Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data. Only 27 percent of Native applications were approved and processed, compared to 37 percent for whites.

Despite the disparity, more Native Americans are becoming homeowners. Home purchase loans tripled in just one year, from 2003 to 2004, according to the HMDA data.

Get the Story:
Homeownership still low among American Indians (New Mexico Business Weekly 7/3)

SCIA Letter:
HUD Indian Housing Freeze (June 28, 2006)

Relevant Documents:
Cabrera Letter Suspending Funds | Court Decision in Ft. Peck Case

Hearing Info:
OVERSIGHT HEARING on Native American Housing Programs (Wednesday, June 28, 2006)

Relevant Links:
Fort Peck Tribes - http://www.fortpecktribes.org
Office of Public and Indian Housing, HUD - http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih
National American Indian Housing Council - http://naihc.net
Senate Indian Affairs Committee - http://indian.senate.gov

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