Breaking Down Barriers: Erika’s Journey to Homeownership 

Breaking Down Barriers: Erika’s Journey to Homeownership

Erika understands that Black prospective homebuyers face barriers that their white counterparts do not. 

“It can be challenging for minorities to own a home and achieve homeownership,” Erika said. 

Nationwide, only 35% of Black applicants are approved for a mortgage, compared to nearly 56% of white applicants, in the same income range, applying for similar loan amounts (Source). In Milwaukee, more than half of white families own the home they live in, while only about a quarter of Black families own the home they live in (Source).

Owning a home has always been a dream for Erika, and she was determined to make it happen, despite the barriers she might face.

“One of my biggest dreams was to own a home,” Erika said. “I want to have a space where I can truly make changes and create a safe environment. I can transform it into a space that reflects who I am.”

After exploring various homeownership programs in Milwaukee and working with a realtor, Erika decided she would apply to Milwaukee Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership program.

“I read up on it and thought it would be a good milestone and journey,” Erika said. “I like the way that you get to put in the hours, to be able to dig in and be in tune with what owning a home is about.”

As part of the program, future homeowners complete sweat equity hours, a concept Erika is familiar with since her mother completed them when building her own Habitat home. Sweat equity hours include building homes on site or volunteering at Milwaukee Habitat ReStores. 

Erika was accepted into the program and is now continuing the family legacy by partnering with Milwaukee Habitat to build a brand new home.

“Both of my parents own homes. My mom owns a Habitat home,” Erika said. “That was one of the reasons I wanted to own a home. It was an inspiration to me.”

Erika wants to set an example and show others that, despite the challenges many face to achieving homeownership, it is possible.

“You can do it,” Erika said. “If you set your mind to it, you can actually do it. I hope it inspires and trickles down.”

Erika is no stranger to inspiring others and helping people live up to their strengths. As a unit manager at a residential treatment center for teenage boys, Erika influences lives every day.

“I was a juvy correctional officer for two years,” Erika said. “I now want to reach youth before they get to that point. I am helping the youth reach their full potential.”

Erika’s passion for helping others reach their full potential is reflected in her own journey, as she works towards achieving her goals, including the dream of homeownership.

“I will feel joyful [when I become a homeowner],” Erika said. “I am definitely going to be grateful. I will be like ‘wow.’ This is what I really did. I accomplished it. I’m excited to be here.”

Together with Milwaukee Habitat, Erika is breaking down the barriers to affordable homeownership and setting an example for others that they, too, can achieve the dream of owning a home.