I find that 66% of Americans are homeowners statistic to be suspect as well. Are they counting people that "own" their home, but are underwater on their zero down mortgage?

To me, you don't really own your home unless it's completely paid off. So, what percentage of that 66% have active mortgages, and how much equity do they have in their homes? Now do that same analysis for the 55% figure he provides from the 1950s. I would be willing to bet there's a lot more equity in houses in the past.