HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM: PARTICIPANT SUCCESS

Participants in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program or HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Voucher (HUD-VASH) program may be eligible for the KCDC Homeownership Program. The program allows participants to use their voucher to supplement mortgage payments.

To date, approximately 200 individuals and families have closed on mortgages through the Homeownership Program. It is open to any eligible veteran, individual or family regardless of disability status. Below are three success stories from participants in the Homeownership Program.


Danielle M., FSS graduate

FAMILY GATHERS AROUND THE TABLE

KCDC’s Homeownership Program is set up for success. Along with other supporting partners and programs, they helped me understand the home buying process and explained all the numbers and why they matter. Everyone showed so much patience in answering all of my questions.

As both a child and an adult, I had to move around a lot. It got to a point where I didn’t even want to unpack the boxes. I was never settled. Now, my family is home and I feel like I can breathe.

Our home could not be more perfect. I have a big family, so it was important to have a dining room for family meals and yard for my children to play. We even have a tire swing.

Even if you feel like homeownership is just a dream, just start the process. We all have the choice to start – even if we don’t feel like we’re ready. I’ve learned so much and achieved so many goals that I never thought possible.

To learn more about KCDC Section 8 programs, visit our Section 8 page.


Danielle M., FSS graduate


Ele Latimer

A FRONT PORCH THAT FEEDS THE SOUL

In August of 2018, I became a homeowner through KCDC’s Homeownership Program. The program starts with classes that you need to complete before you can proceed with finding a lender. They helped me work within a budget on my fixed income.

My home meets all of my needs and has features that I desired such as an open floor plan and a garage. Everything in my home was checked from the roof to the electrical to the plumbing. With grant assistance, I was able to pay for a few improvements that were needed when I first purchased my home.

It is worth the effort. I feel like I’m really home and I love being able to say, ‘Come on over to my home!’ I have a front yard and backyard with trees and love sitting on my front porch to enjoy the view. I sit out there and thank God for the beautiful sight to be seen.

I have a young godchild who enjoys the yard as well, including a kiddie pool which has provided hours of entertainment for us all.

If you are considering becoming a homeowner, check to see when the next class starts and sign up now. I encourage others to pursue the possibility of becoming a homeowner through the Homeownership Program.

To see if you qualify for the KCDC Homeownership Program, visit our qualifications page.

GROWING MORE THAN A GARDEN

Carl “Red” Butler, veteran homeowner

I served in the Army and was hit hard during the recession. I participated in the HUD-VASH program for two years and learned about KCDC’s Homeownership Program at one of the meetings. I heard about the program on a Wednesday and by Friday I was starting the process. KCDC connected me with so many fine people and organizations who helped me with homeownership classes, navigate credit issues, secure financing and so much more.

If you are considering this program, don’t be scared! Yes, it’s a big step, but KCDC supports you from day one. I learned how to look for a home, how to maintain a home, how to keep a budget – all step by step, in terms that are easy to understand. All you have to do is listen and take one step at a time.

I have a home to call my own and am so proud to call it mine. I enjoy my garden and being able to add personal touches to my home. Most of all, I love the independence that comes from being a homeowner.

If you participate in the HUD-VASH program and would like more information on the KCDC Homeownership Program, call (865) 403-1234.