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Home Stretch Case Study

Homeownership Possible Thanks to City’s Home Stretch Down Payment Assistance

The Home Stretch Down Payment Assistance Program provides funding for eligible first-time homebuyers in Takoma Park. Annually, the City provides funding for forgivable loans of $10,000 for income-eligible individuals and families living in or relocating to Takoma Park, helping families build generational wealth through homeownership. Since its inception, the program has helped nine first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership.

Sam and Aphra Adkins and their two children were one such family. In January 2020, they closed on their first home on Kansas Avenue in Takoma Park. Sam, a chef, and Aphra, an entrepreneur and designer, used the Home Stretch funds to get to the closing table.

“Without the Home Stretch program, we would not have been able to afford a home,” said Aphra. “The process was straightforward, and the team was helpful and encouraging every step of the way. The welcome we received once moving to the neighborhood confirmed that we had made the right decision.

The City of Takoma Park is committed to helping qualified individuals and families achieve homeownership by reducing their financial barriers.

Visit takomaparkmd.gov or email grants@takomaparkmd.gov for more information about this program and to apply.