“I don’t think I would have found my dream home had it not been for Operation HOPE,” said Nicole, a graduate of our Homeownership Coaching Program. Like many Americans feeling the squeeze of the economy, Nicole was tired of paying rent that increased often. She had a dream of buying her own home, both for her own financial security and to help her mom who has a disability. “In the beginning, I was only approved for enough to buy townhomes, which wasn’t an option for my mom with her illness and not being able to get up and down.” So Nicole continued to work with her financial coach, Kimberly, to increase her credit score. 

Then their strategy had a hiccup of the best kind—Nicole got engaged! She brought her fiancé, Ethan, into the coaching program and adjust the plan to work on his credit score so they could both qualify for a mortgage. 

Nicole’s advice to anyone looking to buy a home: get a coach. “Having a coach can help you reach your goals and take the time to make sure that you’re in a good position to get everything that you need in the home.” One of her biggest takeaways was learning about the things to ask for in the home inspection, empowering her to ensure specific components were completed to their satisfaction. 

She is proud that she and Ethan got to work on this journey together, not only buying their first home but setting their family up for financial success. “I would like to thank Kimberly for her diligence and patience with me on my journey as it took several twists and turns. I do not think I would have found my dream home had not been for Operation HOPE and Kimberly.”

– by Page Patten