A first-time homeowner at age 55, Donna Murphy waited a long time to enjoy the simple pleasures of homeownership.

With the help of neighbors, friends and family, she wasted no time turning her house into a home. She and her daughter built a patio while her five grandchildren enjoyed the charm of small-

Donna Murphy at her home

town life–biking to the beach and participating in the Fourth of July parade.

Donna also welcomed a puppy, Oscar, and now walks with him three times a day.

“I love this little town!” Donna says.

Donna manages a fast-food restaurant and moved after her rental home in Park Rapids was sold. An area lender refinanced her car loan, which helped lower her overall debt. They also connected her with MMCDC, which utilized two affordable home loan programs, including a “soft second” loan with no immediate payment required. “It was so easy,” she said.

MMCDC, in turn, connected her with an online homebuyer education class, called Framework. Donna also successfully negotiated a substantial reduction on the home purchase price. And, the sellers made plumbing repairs on the home prior to loan closing.

As a result, the monthly mortgage payment on her new home is lower than her previous rent.

…No matter where in our state you live, you can easily access homeownership education and advising… so you can map your personal journey to purchasing your own home.

Julie Gugin, Executive Director, Minnesota Homeownership Center (provider of Framework online education)