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NeighborWorks America and Building Stronger Communities Continues During National Homeownership Month

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June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and to highlight the programs and organizations that help make homeownership accessible and sustainable for all. One key player in this mission is NeighborWorks America, a national nonprofit network dedicated to promoting affordable housing through education, community development, and lending.

What Is NeighborWorks America?
NeighborWorks America supports a nationwide network of local organizations that provide a wide range of services designed to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Their work includes:

  • Homebuyer education and counseling: Helping potential buyers understand the home buying process, budgeting, and financial management.
  • Community development: Supporting efforts to revitalize neighborhoods through affordable housing projects, neighborhood improvement initiatives, and economic development.
  • Affordable lending: Facilitating access to responsible financing options for low-to-moderate income families.

By partnering with over 240 local NeighborWorks organizations, NeighborWorks America ensures resources and support reach communities in need across the country.

Why NeighborWorks America Matters for Homebuyers
For many aspiring homeowners, the journey to buying a home can be complex and challenging. NeighborWorks America addresses these challenges by providing education and counseling that empower buyers to make informed decisions and build long-term financial stability. Their programs help prevent foreclosure and improve credit scores, which increases the chances of successful homeownership.

Additionally, their focus on community development means that they do not just help individuals buy homes, they help create thriving neighborhoods where families want to live, work, and grow.

Connection to National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than just buying a house, it is about building stable, vibrant communities and ensuring that homeownership is attainable for everyone. NeighborWorks America’s mission aligns perfectly with these goals. Their comprehensive approach combines education, financial assistance, and community revitalization to address the many barriers that can stand in the way of homeownership.

During this month, it’s important to recognize organizations like NeighborWorks America that work tirelessly to promote housing affordability and sustainability. Their efforts contribute to stronger neighborhoods and better futures for families across the country.

How You Can Get Involved or Benefit
If you’re considering buying a home, NeighborWorks America’s network of local organizations can be an invaluable resource. They offer free or low-cost homebuyer education classes, credit counseling, and financial coaching. These services prepare buyers to confidently navigate the mortgage process and maintain their homes long-term.

Real estate professionals and community advocates can also support NeighborWorks America by referring clients to their programs or partnering on community initiatives that promote affordable housing.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s acknowledge the critical role NeighborWorks America plays in making homeownership a reality for so many families, and the ongoing work needed to create equitable, sustainable housing solutions nationwide.

How Habitat for Humanity Supports Homeownership By Building Hope and Homes

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the value of owning a home and recognize the individuals and organizations working to make homeownership more accessible to everyone. One of the most well-known and impactful organizations in this space is Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that’s been helping families build and own safe, affordable homes for nearly 50 years.

Habitat for Humanity goes beyond construction. It provides stability, empowerment, and dignity to families who may never have thought homeownership was within reach. During National Homeownership Month, it is especially important to highlight how this organization makes a lasting difference.

A Hand Up, Not a Handout
Habitat for Humanity believes that everyone deserves a decent place to live. But unlike traditional charity models, Habitat does not give away homes. Instead, it offers a partnership model, homebuyers contribute “sweat equity” by helping build their own homes or the homes of others. They then purchase the home through an affordable mortgage, often with monthly payments tailored to their income.

This approach fosters pride, investment, and a stronger connection to the community. It also ensures the program is sustainable, allowing Habitat to serve more families year after year.

Empowering Families Through Education
In addition to home construction, Habitat prepares future homeowners through financial literacy and homeownership education. Participants learn about budgeting, mortgage responsibilities, home maintenance, and more—tools that help them succeed as long-term homeowners.

These educational components are vital. Many Habitat families are first-time buyers navigating complex financial systems. The knowledge they gain through Habitat’s programs helps set them up for lasting success and stability.

Community Impact
Habitat’s impact stretches far beyond individual homes. In many neighborhoods, Habitat-led projects have helped revitalize communities, reduce blight, and boost local economies. Volunteer opportunities bring people together from all walks of life, building not just homes, but also connections and compassion.

During National Homeownership Month, Habitat often partners with local governments, businesses, and community groups to raise awareness and increase involvement in its mission. These partnerships demonstrate the power of collective action and the difference it can make in someone’s life.

Responding to the Housing Crisis
With rising home prices and limited affordable housing in many areas, Habitat’s work is more essential than ever. The organization advocates for policies that promote affordable housing, supports zoning reform, and helps remove barriers to homeownership, especially for underserved populations.

Habitat for Humanity’s mission aligns perfectly with the goals of National Homeownership Month: to promote the dream of homeownership and to make it a reality for more people, regardless of their background or income level.

How You Can Get Involved
You do not have to be a contractor to make a difference. Habitat offers numerous ways to support its work, from volunteering on sites and donating materials to supporting advocacy campaigns and shopping at Habitat ReStores.

By supporting Habitat for Humanity, you are not just helping build homes, you are building futures.

Creating Fairer Housing for All and How REALTORS Are Leading the Way with Fairhaven and ACT!

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and to recognize the organizations and individuals working to make that dream accessible to all. While much of the focus is rightly on financial assistance and buyer education, it’s equally important to talk about fairness, and what’s being done behind the scenes to ensure every person has an equal opportunity to purchase a home.

That’s where two powerful initiatives from the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) come in: Fairhaven and ACT!. Both programs are transforming the way real estate professionals approach housing equality, reinforcing the idea that homeownership is not just a goal, it is a right that should be protected and promoted.

What Is Fairhaven?
Fairhaven is a groundbreaking interactive fair housing simulation training program designed by NAR. In this virtual learning platform, REALTORS step into the role of both client and agent, navigating real-world scenarios involving bias, discrimination, and ethical dilemmas.

The goal? To challenge agents to confront personal assumptions and biases while reinforcing fair housing laws and the core belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at buying a home.

Fairhaven is not just another training; it is an immersive experience. It helps REALTORS see firsthand how subtle discrimination can affect buyers, and it encourages them to build more inclusive business practices. The name itself, Fairhaven, symbolizes a safe, welcoming community, exactly what the homebuying process should be for every individual, regardless of race, gender, background, or financial status.

The ACT! Initiative
Standing for Accountability, Culture Change, and Training, ACT! is NAR’s broader strategy to eliminate discrimination in the real estate industry and foster a more equitable housing market. This initiative includes policy recommendations, educational reform, leadership accountability, and outreach programs aimed at reshaping the industry from the inside out.

ACT! recognizes that fair housing is not just a legal obligation, it is a social responsibility. Through this program, NAR is empowering REALTORS to go beyond compliance and become active leaders in the movement for housing justice.

Why It Matters During National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than increasing the number of homeowners, it is about increasing opportunity. Fairhaven and ACT! speak directly to that mission by helping ensure every buyer is treated with dignity and fairness, and that no one is left behind due to systemic bias or outdated practices.

When REALTORS are trained to recognize and address inequities, the path to homeownership becomes more open, more honest, and more achievable for everyone. These programs not only elevate the professionalism of the industry, but they also build trust within the communities REALTORS serve.

Moving Toward a More Inclusive Market
As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s also celebrate progress. Programs like Fairhaven and ACT! show that real estate professionals are not just part of the market, they are shaping it. And with that responsibility comes the power to make meaningful changes.

How the National Association of REALTORS Supports the Path to Homeownership

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June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate one of the most important milestones in life, owning a home. While many organizations work to make homeownership accessible, one of the most influential is the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). As the largest trade association in the U.S., NAR plays a critical role in promoting, protecting, and expanding homeownership opportunities for all Americans.

With over 1.5 million members, NAR is not just an association for real estate professionals, it’s an advocate for buyers, sellers, and communities nationwide. During National Homeownership Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight how this organization supports current and future homeowners.

Championing the American Dream
At its core, NAR believes that homeownership is the foundation of strong communities and personal financial stability. Through its advocacy efforts, NAR works with lawmakers, regulators, and industry leaders to protect property ownership rights and ensure housing policies support both buyers and sellers.

Whether it is pushing for tax incentives for homeowners, supporting fair housing laws, or promoting financial literacy, NAR plays a hands-on role in shaping the policies that directly impact your ability to buy and keep a home.

Educating and Empowering Buyers
Education is essential for a successful homeownership journey, and NAR provides a wide range of resources to help buyers navigate the process with confidence. Their affiliated site, Homeownership Matters, offers articles, tips, and updates on housing-related issues, while Realtor.com connects consumers with market data, listings, and professional guidance.

NAR also promotes the importance of working with a REALTOR, a professional who not only abides by a strict code of ethics but is also trained to advocate for your best interests throughout the transaction.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, NAR reminds buyers that they do not have to go it alone, having a trusted expert by your side makes the path smoother and more secure.

Promoting Housing Equality
NAR is a strong proponent of fair housing and equal opportunity. The association has launched several initiatives, including Fairhaven, a fair housing simulation training program for REALTORS®, and ACT!, a program focused on accountability, culture change, and training to combat discrimination in real estate.

In alignment with National Homeownership Month’s focus on expanding access, NAR’s commitment to inclusivity helps ensure that the dream of homeownership is achievable for individuals and families from all backgrounds.

Advocating for Affordability and Access
Through ongoing research and outreach, NAR also addresses the challenges many potential buyers face, such as affordability and limited inventory. By sharing market trends and working with policymakers, NAR supports solutions that aim to expand housing availability and promote sustainable ownership.

Celebrating National Homeownership Month wouldn’t be complete without recognizing the work of the National Association of REALTORS®. Their dedication to advocacy, education, and equality continues to make a lasting impact on communities across the country.

If you’re considering homeownership or simply want to learn more, NAR’s resources and network of professionals are a great place to start.

Why You Should Always Check the Street Name Before Buying a Home

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When your house hunting, you are likely focused on the big things like: location, price, layout, and condition. But there is one small detail that can have a surprising impact on your homeownership experience, the street name. While it may seem insignificant at first, the name of your street can affect everything from resale value and first impressions to daily convenience and even safety.

Curb Appeal Starts With the Address
First impressions matter, and your street name is often the first thing someone hears when you share your address. Names like “Ocean View Drive” or “Whispering Pines Lane” can evoke a sense of charm or luxury, while names like “Industrial Avenue” or “Dirt Road” may raise an eyebrow. This seemingly minor detail can color someone’s perception of your home, even before they see it.

It Can Influence Property Value
Believe it or not, some studies have shown that homes on streets with more pleasant or prestigious-sounding names can sell for more than similar homes nearby. A name that suggests exclusivity or nature often appeals more to buyers than one that sounds generic or uninviting. If you’re thinking about resale value, this is something to consider.

Navigational Issues and Delivery Confusion
Street names that are difficult to spell, pronounce, or that sound too similar to nearby roads can cause headaches when it comes to mail, deliveries, and GPS navigation. If your address is often confused with another, you might find packages going missing or guests getting lost. Avoiding streets with names like “Oak Street” and “Oak Lane” right next to each other can save you a lot of stress.

Avoiding Negative Associations
Some street names have unfortunate associations—whether tied to history, a past event, or an unsavory reference. While these may not seem like a big deal, they can influence a potential buyer’s emotional reaction. Buyers might shy away from a home on “Gunpowder Road” or “Dead Man’s Curve” for obvious reasons.

Emergency Services and Safety
Emergency responders rely on accurate and unique addresses. If a street name is too similar to another nearby, it can delay critical response times. In urgent situations, every second counts. Choosing a home on a clearly labeled, distinct street helps ensure that police, fire, or medical personnel can locate your home quickly.

Ultimately, your home is more than an investment, it is a place where you will live, grow, and create memories. A street name might not be the first thing you consider, but it contributes to your overall comfort, convenience, and even pride of ownership.

So, when you are looking at homes, do not overlook the details. Take a moment to say the full address out loud. How does it sound? Can you picture telling it to someone on the phone or writing it on an invitation? If it gives you pause, it might be worth looking at the next option down the road.

The Hidden Reasons Homes Linger on the Market

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When a home sits on the market longer than expected, the price is often the first thing blamed. While overpricing can be a major factor, it’s far from the only one. One of the most common culprits is poor presentation. Buyers today form opinions within seconds, often based on online photos before they even step foot inside. 

Homes that are cluttered, outdated, poorly lit, or in need of deep cleaning may leave a negative impression. Listing photos that are dark, grainy, or unprofessional can stop interest before it starts. 

Accessibility and Showings 
Another big reason homes don’t move quickly is limited accessibility. If a home is difficult to show, whether it’s strict showing hours, last-minute cancellations, or requiring too much advance notice, buyers may simply pass and move on to more available options. The easier it is to schedule and tour, the more likely a home is to be seen, and sold.

Seasonal Timing and Market Conditions 
Timing matters. Homes listed during slower real estate seasons, like late fall or the winter holidays, may naturally take longer to sell. That doesn’t necessarily reflect on the home itself, just that fewer buyers are actively shopping. Even great listings can linger if the market is quieter when they hit the MLS.

Condition Compared to Competition 
Buyers compare. If your home lacks updates or features that similar homes in the area offer, like renovated kitchens, modern bathrooms, or energy-efficient appliances, it may feel overpriced even if it’s not. Small upgrades like fresh paint, new fixtures, or landscaping improvements can help a home stand out and show value without requiring a full renovation.

Seller Psychology and Flexibility 
Emotion plays a role, too. Sellers who are very emotionally attached to their home may struggle to accept feedback from their real estate agent. This might mean resisting price adjustments or refusing to make suggested updates. Unfortunately, a stagnant listing often ends up needing deeper cuts or bigger changes later, ones that could have been avoided by staying flexible early on.

Marketing Reach and Strategy 
Lastly, marketing matters. Simply putting a home on the MLS isn’t enough. Homes that aren’t promoted through multiple channels, such as social media, email campaigns, video tours, agent networks, and paid advertising, can easily be missed by qualified buyers. Effective marketing increases visibility and attracts a larger pool of interested, motivated buyers.

In short, price is important, but it’s not the only reason some homes sit. If a property isn’t moving, it’s time to look at the full picture: presentation, accessibility, market timing, local competition, emotional readiness, and marketing strategy. With the right adjustments and an experienced real estate professional guiding the process, homes that linger can often be repositioned for a quicker, more successful sale.