Real People Real Stories
Robert Haynes
Robert experienced two life-changing events a month apart as he got married in June and closed on his first house in July. The purchase was the culmination of a year-and-a-half process working with Homes in Partnership.
A lifelong resident of Apopka, he had seen others purchase houses through the help of Homes in Partnership. He wanted to do so as well, but as he says, "I didn't put myself in a position to be blessed by them because of the lifestyle I lived."
After having a change of heart he decided it was time to pursue his dream and sought the assistance of HIP. “Without Homes in Partnership I wouldn't have the home:” he says.
“I had things I had to do to prove myself worthy of getting the loan. They gave me a plan to follow.”
His success has given him a renewed spirit. “Now that I know things are attainable regardless of your past it gives me another source of hope or strength," he says. “It makes me feel great. I never thought I could accomplish anything because of my past.”
Robert's advice to others is. “Regardless of how things may look on your job stay at it. Keep a positive attitude and always believe.”
Tamelia Long
Tamelia was able to leave behind the cramped quarters of a small efficiency and is now a new homeowner through Homes in Partnership. The entire process took her about a year and a half. She was familiar with Homes in Partnership because several friends and family members have purchased homes with the help of HIP.
“I don't even know where to start to talk about how Homes in Partnership helped me,” Tamelia said.
“Starting all over for one thing was difficult and I never dreamed in a million years I would have a house this soon after coming out of a divorce. My credit was not looking that great and they helped me get that straightened out so I could qualify. It's been a wonderful experience.”
Her advice to others is to have a plan. "You have to have a short-term plan and a long-term plan,” Tarnelia says. “You have to take it day-by-day, sometimes minute-by-minute. You have to just keep pushing until you can accomplish that dream. Everybody can do it. If I can do this, anybody can do it. You just have to have a plan and not give up.”
Jose and Elena Bocardo
Elena and Jose are in the process of becoming second generation home owners through Homes in Partnership. But in this instance their son was actually the first generation owner. They are currently renting a mobile home and have a house under construction.
The Bocardo's son Juan purchased a home through HIP more than 15 years ago. Elena had a Homes in Partnership business card in her wallet for nine years and had the occasion to pull it out a few years ago when her niece was interested in buying a house. That's what got her reacquainted with HIP and sparked the interest in owning a home of her own.
“We’re happy, my husband and I,” Elena says. “Our dream of owning our own home is coming true.”
Ronnie Wood
Ronnie is a new homeowner, just taking up residence in his new home in August. He has a daughter in college and a son who just joined the military. He worked with HIP for about three years to see his dream come true “It’s everybody’s dream to own a house.” Ronnie said.
“You are never too old to have a house and they made it possible. I appreciate all of the help I got.”
His advice to others regarding the dream of home ownership is: “Go for it. If that's what their dream is then go for it. It feels good to own your own home. Homes in Partnership helped make my dream come true.”
