With Dedication and Patience, Gayle B. Realizes Dream of Homeownership

Gayle B.’s homeownership journey began more than 20 years ago, when she first enrolled in a homeownership counseling program. Unfortunately, a job loss kept her from completing the program. This setback led to a depleted savings account, which negatively impacted her credit. With the goal of repairing her credit, Ms. Ballard spent many years working in low wage-earning temporary and part-time positions. After finally gaining full-time employment with a higher salary, Ms. Ballard faced health challenges.

When asked about her key takeaway from her experience, Ms. Ballard says, “The key to homeownership is to have patience.”

Upon retiring 20 years after first seeking homeownership counseling, Ms. Ballard was able to use retirement funds to repair her credit. In 2023, she and her spouse, Terrance Mitchell, continued to pursue homeownership together. Because Mr. Mitchell uses a wheelchair, the couple sought a home that would be affordable on a fixed income with amenities to accommodate his physical abilities. Ms. Ballard and Mr. Mitchell were able to make their dream of becoming homeowners a reality with the support of The Housing Partnership, Inc. (HPI), one of the National Fair Housing Alliance® (NFHA™)’s Inclusive Communities grantees. HPI helped them purchase an affordable home, providing the couple with a second mortgage in the form of a zero percent interest Home Access Loan to cover closing costs. Through Louisville Metro’s REVERT program, the couple received $50,000 in rehabilitation funding for home modifications including a new fence, parking pad, and an expanded hallway. Their house would also be installed with a backyard ramp and walk-in tub from Veterans Affairs (VA). Finally, more than 20 years later, Gayle B.’s determination and persistence has paid off, and she has reached her long-time dream of owning a home.