LaPorche’s Homeownership Journey Begins

LaPorche’s Homeownership Journey Begins

A simple, yet significant, realization changed the trajectory of LaPorche and her children’s futures.

“Honestly, I realized one day that I have been in [this apartment] for eight years, investing in someone else’s dream. And if I can stay here [that long], I can stay at a home and put money towards something for my kids,” LaPorsche said.

LaPorche spent much of her childhood in her mother’s home, a place her mother has owned for over twenty years. Having experienced the stability of that upbringing, LaPorche is determined to provide her own children with the same sense of security. 

“When we go over [to my mother’s home], we still see our [childhood] rooms,” LaPorche said. “I want to give my kids something like that. We come home and know this is our home.”

When LaPorche decided she wanted to become a homeowner, she began by exploring listings on the open market. After visiting several homes, she realized how much they differed in person compared to the online photos. She was discouraged by the process until a Facebook post pointed her in a different direction.

Volunteers from Accunet Mortgage, the sponsor of Naidia’s home, framing a new home this summer. Volunteers are pictured with fellow future homeowner, Alexis.

“I was on Facebook and saw a popup [for Habitat for Humanity],” LaPorche said. “I applied that night and am now going through the whole process.”

Because of her response to the Facebook post, LaPorche is now building a brand-new four-bedroom home with Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. She is confident that this is the right fit for her and her children.

First-time buyers in the Milwaukee Habitat Affordable Homeownership program can build a 3-4 bedroom home for an average mortgage payment of less than $950 per month.

“I felt like everything made sense as far as square footage, bedrooms, and the range for my mortgage,” LaPorche said. “I am going to purchase and my mortgage should be around $950 a month. If I’m spending $1400 at my apartment, spending $950 on a home makes more sense.”

This difference in monthly payment will have a significant impact on her family.

“I definitely will be able to save a lot more,” LaPorche said. “It will take the stress out of having to pay other bills. With the kids growing out of things, it will mean not having to wait for the next two checks to afford shoes or clothes. I can breathe.”

Volunteers from Sargento, the sponsor of LaPorche’s home, raising walls on site.

LaPorche is ready to build and purchase this new home for her and her children. She is ready to finally call herself a homeowner. 

“I can only imagine what it is going to feel like to get the keys, knowing I’ve actually accomplished it. I’m getting a home,” LaPorche said. “I will be overjoyed and full of all types of emotions.” 

Soon, LaPorche and her children will walk through the doors to their new house, knowing that they now have a place to truly call home.