We’re thrilled to share that two more families are now Habitat homeowners! Matt and Victoria recently closed on their homes and celebrated this milestone with home dedications, where family, friends, and supporters gathered to welcome them into their new spaces. Both Matt and Victoria waited a long time for their dreams of homeownership to come to fruition. Read more about their journeys below. 

Matt 

Matt’s path to homeownership was a long and difficult one. During childhood, he faced housing instability, which caused him anxiety about housing throughout his life. In his young adulthood, he also experienced homelessness before becoming a renter for years. Then, his journey with Habitat Kent began when a coworker who had gone through a similar program encouraged him to apply to ours. Now, he is the first homeowner in Pleasant Hills! 

Reflecting on his experience, Matt shares, “Before I started this, I never thought I could afford a home, let alone a brand-new, beautiful home that was perfect for my family. Habitat Kent helped make that a reality, motivating and reassuring me every step of the way.” 

Matt is especially excited about the stability and freedom that comes with homeownership. “We won’t have to worry about inspections on short notice or the constant fear that a property might be sold or renovated out from under us. Having a permanent home gives us a level of control over our lives and our space that we simply haven’t had before.” 

He’s also looking forward to creating lasting memories with his family. He says, “I’m excited that we can finally host my son’s birthday parties at home, let him have friends over for slumber parties, and host our own Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners. Having that privacy and a space that is truly ours is what I’m looking forward to most.” 

Summing up his journey, Matt shares, “This home is a dream come true for my family. We are so grateful to everyone who helped us turn this dream into reality.” 

Victoria 

Victoria first learned about Habitat from one of our partner lenders, ChoiceOne Bank, and credits both organizations with helping her feel confident and supported throughout the homebuying process. 

After several unsuccessful attempts to purchase a home, Victoria began to feel disheartened. She says, “I never thought I would be able to be a homeowner. I started feeling discouraged during the homeownership process after being outbid on several homes. Never did I imagine having a brand-new home, let alone a home at any point in the homeownership process.” 

Now, she is filled with optimism. She shares, “Being a homeowner gives my family and me a forever home that is big enough for all of us. I’m excited to work towards having a paid-off home for my family to enjoy for years down the road.” 

Victoria is also looking forward to making the house her own with help from her three children. She has plans for both indoor and outdoor projects, from painting to installing a fence. 

Expressing her appreciation, she says, “I’m so thankful for this beautiful home. Thank you to Habitat Kent for helping families like mine achieve homeownership.” 

Same feedback as above – you did a great job piecing together narrative and quotes to make a beautiful, emotion and impact-filled story. 

Know someone interested in homeownership, or want to learn about our program? Learn more here!