Eighteen new homeowners who had proved their determination by completing the District of Columbia’s Homeownership Assistance Program (HPAP), were celebrated on June 30 for their recent purchases of homes at Metro Towns at Parkside.
“Anybody who is going through this program should know that it is a hard program, it’s frustrating. Things might not seem like they are going anywhere, but you have to keep your eyes on the prize,” said Coretta Ellis, a new homeowner who completed the HPAP program, “It is so worth it in the end when you put that key in the door.”
The HPAP program taught Ellis lessons that she found invaluable in her new state of home ownership. Ellis said she learned how to better budget for herself and her family how to take care of her home on her own without a land lord or maintenance staff. Before enrolling in the HPAP program Ellis and her family were staying in a shelter. Today she looks upon her home with tremendous appreciation.
“I love it! I never in a million years would have thought this possible, but I love it.” said Ellis, regarding her new home.
The District of Columbia Housing Authority, Bozutto Construction, the Pollin family, Enterprise Homes, and SunTrust Community Bank came together at the June 30 event to honor Ellis and 17 other new homeowners. The new homeowners were presented with gift baskets filled with a variety of supplies that all homeowners can appreciate–Swiffer cleaning supplies and laundry detergent to name a few–and warmly welcomed into the community with a buffet lunch and friendly atmosphere.
“It’s still so new, it’s like I’m dreaming,” Ellis said while smiling towards gathered community of her new neighborhood.
