Refusing to Settle for Less

Refusing to Settle for Less

Naidia’s oldest son, Nijel (12), has already created a Christmas list filled with gifts he hopes to get for his new room. Nijel currently shares a room with his younger brother Justin (8), but will soon be getting a room of his own.

At the top of all of their Christmas lists this year is a home they can call their own. 

That wish is becoming a reality as Naidia partners with Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity to build a brand-new home for herself and her two sons. Early next year, they will move into their new home and Nijel will finally have a chance to decorate his own room.

“He is super excited,” Naidia said. “He has photos of the house on his phone and is talking to friends about it. He is sending me things he wants in his room.”

Currently, Naidia and her sons live in a two bedroom loft that they have been renting for five years. She feels like she has had to compromise on things that don’t truly meet her needs.

“I’ve been living in this apartment for five years now,” Naidia said. “There’s a lot of things I don’t like with upkeep, management, and with inflation and things being expensive. I had to settle and live there even when I didn’t want to.”

She believes that Milwaukee Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership program will help her achieve her dream of homeownership and provide the comfort she has been longing for. 

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 feel like I’ve blown past the last 10 plus years doing things I hate in the renting process and staying in places I wasn’t comfortable,” Naidia said. “I had to settle. Now, I don’t have to settle.”

Not only will this home provide Naidia and her sons with the space they desire, but it will benefit their family long term.

“I feel like this is a home that these children can continue to grow in,” Naidia said. “We will build here. It will be an asset for me and my children.” 

Naidia loves to host family gatherings and is excited to have a backyard and basement that can accommodate her family and friends.

“It’s exactly what I’m looking for,” Naidia said. “It’s pretty much me.”

Naidia believes that becoming a Habitat homeowner will change her life.

“It’s a milestone in my life,” Naidia said. “I’ve moved to the next level with something I’ve been dreaming of doing…. A financial burden is released off my shoulders. I feel more free and open. I’m excited about that.”

Although a few months away, Naidia imagines the moment she walks into her home the first time:

“I might cry because I’m going to feel like I really did it,” she said. “It’s different when you’re actually in the midst of it. I might cry. I’m not a crier, but certain things get to me.”

As she envisions that emotional moment, Naidia knows that stepping into their new home will mark the beginning of a brighter future for her family, filled with the joy of finally having a place to call their own.