Submitted by Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity.
Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity is making significant strides in addressing homeownership disparities and diversifying the housing market with its transformative project, preserving 80 single-family homes and offering them as affordable homeownership opportunities to income-qualified buyers. This initiative is part of Tacoma Habitat’s commitment to bridging the historical, racial, and wealth gaps as highlighted in recent disparity reports by the State of Washington and the City of Tacoma.
Through Tacoma Habitat’s Homebuyer Program, income-qualified Pierce County residents can own a home with resources and support from the organization including down payment assistance programs and special mortgage products just for Habitat homebuyers.
There are many stories to share about this organization, like Chris, a current Habitat homeowner. “I moved seven times in ten years. I couldn’t afford a place that was safe and comfortable,” he said. “Working with Habitat makes you feel prideful – like you’re a part of the house. A lot of people think they can’t own a home because they don’t make enough money, and banks don’t make you feel like it’s a possibility for anyone. But Habitat has made my dreams come true.”
Habitat homes are single-family detached homes including 3-4 bedrooms and 1-2 baths, with some appliances included such as a dishwasher, stove, and refrigerator.
Those eligible for the program must have household incomes of at least $60,000/year, with a credit score of 620. In a partnership with Tacoma Habitat, homeowners are able to boost stability, security, self-reliance, and build wealth. Free financial counseling is available to all Pierce County residents, to help get households buyer-ready.
“I want my son to experience what I did growing up,” said Sara, a Habitat homeowner. Prior to her Habitat home, she had experienced two evictions and was living with her brother. Now, she has pride in her homeownership.
Visit OwnInPierce.com to learn more about the program.
