Female veterans take steps toward home ownership goals
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- New Yorkers have a diverse housing market to choose from, with options like apartments, condos, and stand-alone homes.
While white picket fences may be a homeowner's dream, large single-family homes remain rare due to the limited land availability. However, limited availability and soaring housing prices are putting the dream of home ownership out of reach for many New Yorkers.
Marlene Heath, a retired Air Force major, understands the obstacles that veterans, especially women, often face in achieving homeownership. "Often times, we get the short end of the stick. Unfortunately, in this area, with the increase in the cost of home ownership, and the increase in the percentage for homeownership, it is really unachievable for many," said Heath.
Heath spent the day at a "House Party" event at Bed Stuy Restoration Plaza in Brooklyn, on a mission to turn homeownership dreams into reality for other female veterans. The resource fair provided free guidance on the home buying process, making it an invaluable opportunity and perfectly timed to coincide with Women Veterans Recognition Day.
The event was hosted by HUD officials and the Bed Stuy Restoration Corporation.
Kimberly McClain, Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations, emphasized the importance of homeownership, saying, "Having a home is a place where we all go back to; it's our center, it's our peace, and whether you're a first-time buyer or buying your second home, it's that opportunity to build generational wealth."
Alicka Ampry-Samuel, HUD Regional Administrator, acknowledged the challenges faced by female veterans, stating, "There are women who have served this country and who work every single day just to make ends meet."
Meanwhile, Heath remains committed to ensuring that female veterans have access to the resources and support they need to achieve their homeownership goals, regardless of the obstacles they may face in New York's competitive housing market.
"I believe in the ease, encouragement, empowerment, employment," said Heath.