Alexis and Her Son Achieve Homeownership Together

Alexis and Her Son Achieve Homeownership Together

With her mother watching over her from above and her oldest son by her side, Alexis is pouring her heart and soul into making her dream home a reality.

“My mom passed away on July 27th last year and July 4th was our last conversation,” Alexis said. “She asked me why I haven’t become a homeowner. She told me there are programs for that. She’s my guardian angel watching over me. She opened doors where I didn’t even know there were doors. I feel like [me becoming a homeowner] is my mom’s last wish. It’s something that I have to do for ma and my children. I was listening, mom, I hear you.”

Following her mother’s advice during their last conversation, Alexis worked to find a homeownership program. This summer, her perseverance paid off and Alexis was accepted into Milwaukee Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership program. 

“When I got the invitation [to apply], I kind of was crying,” Alexis said. “I was missing my mom and got the invitation. This was a sign. I took a leap of faith…I didn’t give up the faith I had. I finally made it to this point and it’s so exciting.”

Alexis is currently dedicating her time to earning her sweat equity hours. Future homeowners like her contribute these hours by working on the build site, volunteering at Habitat ReStores, or assisting at Habitat events. When Alexis is out working, her oldest son, Eric, is often by her side. As a high school freshman and the big brother to four siblings, Eric has embraced a significant role in both his family life and this journey towards homeownership.

Alexis and Eric working on site with Habitual volunteers and volunteers from Accunet Mortgage

“It feels nice,” Eric said, talking about moving in. “I will have somewhere to stay forever and not have to keep moving…Now I see the house. It’s got an attic. You know it’s a house when you got an attic. I feel happy and grateful.”

As a mother of five, Alexis is thrilled about having more space to accommodate her family’s needs.

“Our duplex has three bedrooms and is very tiny,” Alexis said. “We are making do, making ends meet. I give [my kids] the best that I can.”

Soon, Alexis will have ample space for her family and a beloved home to pass down to her children.

“It’s going to be nice and peaceful. Joyful,” Alexis said. “I will feel overwhelmed. I’ll have space for the children and they will have their own space. I’ll be proud. I can give my kids something… I can pass it down to them.”

Eric is learning the profound impact this gift will have.

“Having something passed down to you is a huge honor. I will accept with full gratitude. Thank you,” he said looking at his mom. 

Alexis and volunteers raising a wall on a new Habitat home

Alexis’s current monthly rent is several hundred dollars higher than what her future mortgage will be. 

“It will loosen up money to buy shoes. I won’t have to choose between rent and something they need. It’s a blessing to me,” Alexis said while trying to hold back tears. “Eric has never seen me cry before. This is a first.”

When Alexis and her children move into their Habitat home, she envisions them playing outside in a safe environment and enjoying their new neighborhood.

“[I am excited about] being around neighbors and sitting on the porch drinking a cup of coffee,” Alexis said. “I want to experience that and know the people in the neighborhood. They are here to stay; they are homeowners. You know they have your back.”

As Alexis prepares to move into her Habitat home, she feels certain that her mom would be immensely proud of her.

“My mom’s up there rooting,” Alexis said. “I can see her now. Whenever I do something and accomplish it, she’s up there rooting.” 

With her mother’s memory guiding her and her son Eric’s unwavering support, Alexis is creating a forever home for her and her family.