Riverside, California (NAPSI) - According to a survey by Harris Interactive, 75 percent of military families believe that owning a home is one of the most important things to service members upon returning from active duty. The reasons include a desire to have their own residence (73 percent), establishing a household (43 percent), and financial security (36 percent). In addition, the majority of veterans (88 percent) said that owning a home makes them feel safer.

While one roadblock that veterans face in the pursuit of homeownership is securing steady employment, they display a generally positive attitude in regard to potential employers and positions.

• More than two-thirds believe that employers appreciate their unique skills learned in the military, while the same 67 percent believe employers are eager to hire veterans.

• It’s important to note, however, that nearly half agree that their skill set does not match the requirements for many available positions.

• Only one in five considered opening their own business when they returned home from the military.

All totaled, finding a suitable home and employment and assimilating back into civilian life are challenges many veterans and their families face. Fortunately, services for veterans, including employment, mental health programs, housing and other special care services, are available.

For example, Easter Seals provides direct services to the new and unmet needs of tens of thousands of service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and “Recruiting America’s Heroes,” offered by Century 21 Real Estate LLC, the franchisor of the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization, provides returning veterans who are interested in becoming real estate agents with specific benefits to make a smooth transition. Former military personnel get special training programs and continuing education courses, discounts, and waived annual global conference registration fees.

Anyone interested in learning more about the resources available to active and retired service members can call the Easter Seals Community One Source Hotline, (866) 423-4981, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.century21.com/aboutus/.