In a recent article it was stated that stay-at-home moms are worth $138,095. If this is true, which I believe it is, then single parents are worth twice as much, if not more. For many, being a single parent is about sacrifice; it is about putting your needs second and sometimes not acknowledging them at all. The question is whether you just give up on all your hopes and dreams. “Being a single parent can be an every day struggle, but don’t feel you have to give up your goals in life just because you are on your own,” says Kelly Kennedy, a communication specialist for MindComet Corporation. FTHB had the ultimate privilege of meeting three everyday crusaders who did not give up on what they wanted for their families, three who took the odds against them as mere challenges to overcome.
Jeanne Boudreau
How did you become a single parent?
My life changed dramatically in one day, with one phone call. They informed me that something unfortunate had happened to my sister and wanted to know if they could place her three children in my care while they sorted things out. The consequences of not taking them would have meant that they could be separated and placed into various foster homes. I couldn’t allow that to happen. I had to keep them together.
What made you think of homeownership?
Another task that became more pressing was the quest for homeownership. It wasn’t a distant possibility for me anymore; it became a necessity. I needed to find a house with enough bedrooms, close to amenities, that we could move into as soon as possible. Because the children lost or left behind so much, it was important for me to create stability and familiarity in their lives. My two-bedroom apartment was not big enough for my new instant family.
What are some of the advantages you have experienced so far with being a homeowner?
For me there are many. First, I am giving three children a home to call their own and stability for the future. They have the freedom to play basketball in their own driveway or play in their own back yard. It also teaches them responsibility that comes from owning a home, like mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, or helping with household projects. The children have a place to come home to every day…together. I am also creating equity for my own future that could help pay for their college educations and benefit me in my retirement years. Claiming the mortgage interest on my taxes also creates a nice deduction.
What are some of the challenges you have faced so far?
The upkeep and maintenance with limited time; however, I have created a great network of support, which includes a plumber, electrician, and general handyman. All of them live and work in my community and are available in a pinch.
What advice can you give to potential single parents who are looking to become homeowners?
Don’t look at your current circumstances and say you can’t. Your status as a single parent may have caused detours in your life, but it shouldn’t stop you from considering homeownership. Create a support network of people you can call on when you need help. You can’t do it all yourself. Don’t be a captive of your current environment. If homeownership is a goal for you, begin the process, get started, research, find out what you need to do, and believe you can do it. You have the power to make it happen.
What is one of the most important things you did in the home-buying process?
One of the most important things I did in the home-buying process was to work with people I trust and who could help me make the right decisions. Get good referrals to real estate agents, attorneys, lenders, and inspectors from friends or family members who have had experience buying a home.
What brings you the most joy in homeownership?
Being able to provide a solid foundation to three children who may not have had one. Homeownership will provide my children and me with long-lasting memories of their childhood years.
Who is your cheerleader in making it all happen and keeping your faith during the tough times?
When things get tough, as they often will, I rely on my deep faith to carry me through the rough spots. Without my strong faith, I may have thrown in the towel many times. It’s comforting to know that you are never alone.
Any regrets? Would you do it again?
It’s been more than seven years now. I legally adopted the children, and they are settled into their lives. My life is busy, different, and often demanding; however, I am proud to be a single, working, homeowner. As for the children, are they better off? I certainly think so. They’re together in their own home.
Tamanda Johnson
Where did you live before?
I lived in a bad apartment building in Hartford, Connecticut. I wanted something more for my family and me.
What made you think of homeownership?
I always wanted my own home, but could not afford it. I searched for possibilities and found a program that worked for me. It wasn’t hard work, and it was a great learning experience. I wanted a safe place to raise my daughter in an environment where she could grow and become the wonderful woman I know she is going to be. It feels great to have a home that I can call my own and feel safe.
What program did you go through?
Habitat for Humanity
How has being a homeowner helped your child?
It gave my daughter and me stability and hope. Having a home to raise my child was a big concern for me, and being a homeowner has allowed me to raise my child in a safe environment.
What is some advice you can give potential single parents who are looking to be homeowners?
Never give up! There are wonderful programs that help you accomplish your goals, like Habitat for Humanity helped me become a homeowner. Also learn to budget your money.
What is one of the most important things you did in the home-buying process?
Volunteer. It was nice to give back.
What is the hardest part of being a homeowner?
Taking care of the lawn!
What brings you the most joy in being a homeowner?
It’s mine–all mine!
Who is and who was your cheerleader in making it happen and keeping your faith during the tough times?
My daughter was my cheerleader, and luckily, my family, friends, and coworkers helped me keep my faith and keep everything in perspective.
Any words of wisdom?
Some quotes that help to inspire me Include: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” –Eleanor Roosevelt. And I love this one: “To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe” –Anatole France
Philip Crosson
How did you become a single parent?
[Phillip Crossen explains that he lost his wife LaRita to a heart condition.] "I wasn't easy to get along with," says Phillip. "It was either my way or the highway. When it came to going places, taking care of school business, taking the children shopping, doing whatever, LaRita used to do all of that. The death of LaRita humbled me in a great way. Slowly but surely I began to realize it's not really about me."
What made you think of homeownership?
Phillip says he wanted to give his family a home they could call their own, but kept facing setbacks. “I believe this is the beginning to building wealth, on my way to moving from poverty to prosperity.”
How did you make it happen?
After saving money from his job as a truck driver and receiving some more funds from HomeTeam, a reality television show, Phillip bought a two-story home in District Heights, Maryland. HomeTeam selects deserving individuals and families from across the country and surprises them with a brand-new home. “I was blown away. I thought I could never afford a house, with the cost of living in D. C. being so high.”
What are some of the advantages you have experienced so far with being a homeowner?
It feels wonderful. I am accomplishing something, instead of throwing money down the drain. The kids feel good too. They have their own rooms. It gives me a sense of ownership. I am investing in something instead of spending money.
What are some of the challenges you have faced so far?
The air conditioning is not working, but we are in the process of getting it fixed right now. Working a lot and being two parents is hard, but I have a sense of security for my family and me.
What advice can you give to potential single parents who are looking to become homeowners?
Don’t give up hope. Sometimes things seem like you can’t make it, like you can’t accomplish things, but just keep trying to succeed.
How has this process, being a homeowner, changed you?
I see teenage men grow up, and I know they need to strive for prosperity. I want to be a mentor for young men, to present an image of what they can do. Not stealing or getting into bad things, but working hard you can do a lot. I want to teach them to get started at an early age, so they can build wealth the conventional ways and really learn what they need to do.
The First-Time HomeBuyer would like to thank Jeanne, Tamanda, and Philip for sharing their stories and hearts to encourage and empower others.
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