Story 4: From Renter to Homeownership—A Dream Realized
Samira, First-Time CHT Homebuyer, Former INHS Resident
50 Years, 50 Stories: Story Four
Samira rented multiple apartments from INHS over the past twelve years, moving into larger spaces as her family grew, but she yearned to settle in a space of her own. As a single immigrant mother to two daughters working as a housekeeper, she doubted homeownership was within her reach. But when she saw a “For Sale” sign on the INHS Community Housing Trust townhomes being built at Founders Way, she stopped to investigate.
Samira learned there was a three-bedroom unit under construction and dialed the number on the sign. Several months later, after completing INHS’s Homebuyer Education Program and with INHS’s Homeownership Department guiding her through the lending process, she purchased a townhouse. “I’m so happy. I love the place,” she shared.
A native of Morocco, Samira describes her life as “simple … I take care of my kids, work, take care of my bills.” Now, that life includes homeownership. She has adorned her spacious living room with décor from her homeland, taking advantage of the abundant natural light in the home. Her eleven-year-old appreciates the additional play space in the basement: “It’s nice and cold,” she pointed out on a balmy July afternoon.
Samira feels a new sense of security for her family. “I feel like I’ve done something important for me and for my girls,” she said. “I did something I still don’t believe — I got my own home.”
To date, INHS has helped over 1,350 people purchase their first homes, closing nearly $52 million in loans.
