You arent wealthy unless you save, however you cant save plain cash as its losing value often. But to have savings is generally going to include stocks and bonds beyond plain cash I think is fair. Some say their house is their savings I dont disagree with that though variety is required, a few would say a house is a liability not savings but depends how you play it as you can improve a house which is a form of self improvement I think in the same category as savings imo.
A house can go two way, it can be a liability or an asset, it all depends on the purpose of the house, a house where you live with your family is likely more of a liability because you would have to continue overtime spend money to keep the house in a good shape, as well fix many parts that's are dilapidating due to aging..
But on the other hand, an apartment used solely for business, like a shopping complex, a shopping mall, apartments leased out/rented out for monthly or yearly income, is no doubt an asset because it is a major source of income to its owner..
This is what I think concerning a house either being an asset or a liability.
It is wise that one invest their wealth in something meaningful to generate more wealth or income if you may like and to talk of using a house as a means of savings, I would agree with you that it can go in two ways just as you have stated.
If one builds a house and calls it a savings then u would not argue with the fact that one built a living house because some people sees that as evidence of their wealth and therefore would want something to show for it which a house is not a bad option and in the long run, the house can still be sold out to get money from it which might likely not be same figure one used in building it to finish together with the maintenance costs but the truth is that the house saved for you some cash which was recovered through the sales.
Another is building a house for commercial purpose which I see as a direct investment to generate income or wealth if you may like. This could be in form of hotels, estates, apartments etc which one can use to generate income annually which is not a bad idea to go with.
So therefore, your idea of a house being a liability or an asset can be justified.
Your perception of a house being either an asset or liability certainly sparked a thought. Yet, I hold a different stance.
Indeed, a residential home incurs expenses, such as bills and maintenance. But can we justly tag it as a liability when it offers us a fundamental need like shelter?
On the contrary, commercial properties might earn significant income, but aren't we ignoring the associated risks? Unforeseen market changes, non-paying tenants, and hefty repair costs can easily convert your 'asset' to a 'liability.'
So, here's a proposal. Instead of fixating on labels, why not consider a house as a 'home' or a 'business,' and assess them in their specific contexts?