PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — This National Homeownership Month, Philadelphia Housing Authority renters are taking advantage of its Opening Doors to Homeownership Opportunities Program.
PHA holds information sessions for renters to help them realize their dream of home ownership. Makeeda Holley, PHA Executive Vice President of Resident Programs and Partnerships, says the program has been around for years, and over 1000 PHA residents have completed it so far, though they have seen a slight dip in more recent years because of the interest rates.
“Our goal really is to connect with many of the affordable homeownership units that PHA has in the communities, we support residents in buying perhaps their scattered site where they currently live,” she said.
Holley says residents can be in the program for either 6 months or up to three years, depending on where they are with their credit and savings.
“They'll figure out how to connect with a financial coach with the homeownership Coach, what the steps are for that, and then they'll be able to begin the process of paperwork,” she said.
Just two years ago, Les Brown purchased a home after going through PHA’s program. The mother of five says she lived in public housing for much of her life.
“Tomorrow is not promised to any of us. So why not be happy today,” she said. “Have something to leave your family, your grandkids, your children. Leave a legacy. Be happy in the life that you have.”