Barbara Coldwell approached her goal of homeownership methodically and proactively. Her efforts resulted in a “home sweet home” where she now enjoys a vibrant yard, watching wind moving the leaves of the trees, and listening to birds from her porch and through the window of her dining room- a favorite place to unwind after busy days working in urban Gwinnett County, Georgia. 

Barbara learned about USDA Rural Development’s Single Family Housing Direct Loan Program opportunity while watching a Housing and Urban Development homeownership education video online. She researched financial eligibility, rural property eligibility, loan processing timeframes, and sought a real estate agent familiar with the program. She was well prepared for the journey.

Features of the program made USDA’s opportunity attractive, such as a low interest rate, 100% financing, and no down payment. Once she applied for the loan and received her Certificate of Eligibility, she pored over home listing sites to find a home. “It was challenging because initially I was looking for a home in Barrow County. There were very few homes in the price range and many buyers to compete with,” said Barbara.

She expanded her search radius and persisted. Eventually she found “the one”, a home in nearby Madison County featuring big windows, natural light, and beautiful laminate floors. It has craftsman style fixtures and ceiling fans, and a garage. She loved it so much she would drive there after work many times before the loan closing to imagine her life there.

Barbara says the one drawback is the distance to work, which makes for an hour-long commute most days. But “it’s definitely worth it,” she says. “I love the peace and quiet, the small town, my good neighbors, and my church. Being out in a rural area away from the traffic, congestion, crowds and busyness” is golden. “I love picking strawberries and blueberries, going to farm markets and festivals and visiting the small local cafes and shops.”

When asked what wisdom she’d like to share with others interested in a home loan with USDA Rural Development, she said, “…be patient. The best things in life are worth waiting for. Be patient through the application process, the home search, and the closing. Provide all the requested information and documentation. Be flexible in your expectations for a home. Hope for good things and have faith. Don’t be in a rush…I’m happy I expanded my search; this is my forever home.”

USDA housing specialist, Kimberly Drinkwine, had the pleasure of working with Mrs. Coldwell and expressed what a joy it was to work with her and help her through the loan application process. “Mrs. Coldwell had done her homework and was a delight to work with,” said Drinkwine. 
   
Well built, affordable housing is essential to the vitality of communities in rural America. USDA Rural Development’s Single Family Housing Programs give families and individuals the opportunity to buy, build, or repair affordable homes located in rural America. Explore program opportunities at https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs. In Georgia, interested applicants may contact the local housing team at 706-552-2541.