In a kind of similar fashion, we don’t really own our homes, since, there are a ton of regulations that prevent us from modifying our homes without first checking in with local governments and with other regulatory bodies.
But, in reality, we don’t own our cars or our homes, until the respective ‘mortgages’ are paid off.
Paid off or not, Just try not paying your property tax. The taxing bodies have a perpetual lien on your house and land. If not paid they will take your house and land. There is no home "ownership" as such in this country. It is a rental from the local taxing authority. Home ownership is an American illusion.