HOUSTON – As we embark on another year, we must focus on controlling more of what’s happening in our own communities, but how can you have any power, if you don’t own any property? Home ownership is more important than you think.
Look at the recent headlines about homeowners in Third Ward filing a lawsuit against the Turkey Leg Hut, a restaurant they felt was creating a nuisance in their neighborhood.
The lawsuit was later withdrawn, but the home OWNERS had the POWER to speak out, because they have invested in their lives, and have a right to be heard.
Shad Bogany, broker associate at Better Homes and Gardens Gary Greene Realtors, has been in the real estate industry for 35 years, and he knows a thing or two about the importance of homeownership for African Americans.
“The lack of home ownership among Blacks has a lot to do with the low net worth in some of our communities. Everything is built around wealth and because only 42 percent of us own homes, most of us reading this newspaper today are renters,” Bogany said.
Home ownership isn’t just about having the freedom to paint the walls, change the floor tiles or plant a garden in your yard. It’s about taking pride in something that’s yours. You tend to take care of and protect something more when you’ve invested your time, energy and MONEY into it.
The barriers for home ownership are slowly being eliminated, but we have to start taking advantage of the things that are available to us, including options for no money or 3 percent down.
“The key to increasing home ownership in our community is understanding the first-time home buyer program, the requirements of the lender and the process of purchasing a home, and most importantly, and understanding that this is an INVESTMENT that happens to be a place you live in,” Bogany said.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start paying down your debts. Work on the higher-interest debts first.
Pay on time, every time.
Steer clear of new loans and accounts. The new activity will result in what’s called a “hard” credit inquiry, which can take down your score.
You don’t need perfect credit to buy a home. But the higher your score, the simpler (and more affordable) the process will be.
Do you have student loan debt? One of the main things you should be thinking about is your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.
Create a budget and start saving.
And…get someone who KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING!
“We must realize that there are credentials that a person must have, everything is about implementation,” Bogany said. “Just because someone passed a real estate test (like your favorite cousin or church member), does not mean they are the professional you need.”
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
