Jose and Jessica De Paz are celebrating. Last month marked the one-year anniversary of being homeowners, an accomplishment they weren’t sure they’d be able to realize, but they did their research and attended a homeownership education course in May 2020.
They were looking to purchase a home of their own. They wanted to move their family of seven out of an overcrowded two-bedroom mobile home.
They visited a local bank to apply for a home loan but did not qualify for enough to provide for their family of seven. While visiting with NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska about a Purchase, Rehab, Resell Program, Mrs. De Paz was told about the USDA Rural Development (RD) 502 Home Loan Program. The family received a Certificate of Eligibility from RD for a loan, giving them hope in their search to meet their family’s needs.
After a few months, the family found a home that worked for them. The structure was repaired by NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska, including new windows, new heating and air conditioning, and concrete work. The De Paz's became homeowners in Columbus, Nebraska in May 2021.
One year later, sitting in her very own living room with Jessica Kroeger, Single-Family Loan Assistant, Mrs. De Paz said, “Without the USDA Direct Loan Program, we would not be homeowners right now.”
She would go on to share that the home has provided room for the family to spread out and have individual spaces, something she feels has greatly improved their quality of life.
Rural Development provided the 502 Single-Family Home Loan and NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska provided down payment assistance. Homeownership education was provided by NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska.
Kroeger could feel the pride in the room as she sat with Mrs. De Paz.
“I was part of the homeownership education course the De Paz family attended more than two years ago,” said Kroeger. “It was wonderful to see this come full circle and visit with her one year after closing on their loan. This is a great feeling. I’m looking forward to helping more Nebraskans realize their dreams of homeownership.”
June is Homeownership Month at USDA Rural Development. The organization sets aside this time annually to celebrate the American Dream and promote homeownership. Persons interested in USDA RD home loan programs can find more information on the RD Nebraska website; or by contacting the Single-Family Housing Team at 402-437-5551 Option 1, or email: SM.RD.NE.SFHQST@usda.gov.