Any time of year that staff at Housing Partnership of New Jersey can get a client into a new home is the best time of year, says Stephanie Otaegui, program director for the housing counseling department. And during a season when people talk about hope is a good time to talk about their work.
Otaegui sat down with other members of the team at HPNJ to explain how the departments work together to make homeownership happen. Talking about the work is important, said Arlene Garcia, affordable housing manager, because “people need to know what’s possible.”
As an example, they focused on Yarimar, a young woman who just moved into her own condominium not far from where her parents bought their own home through HPNJ more than 15 years ago. Staff at HPNJ still remember her parents from that time.
“She didn’t think she’d ever be able to get in a home of her own,” explained Australlynn Aidoo, a HUD-certified housing counselor. She’d been renting an apartment using housing vouchers, and had $7,000 saved in a special savings account. She wondered if it would be enough.
With help and direction from the NeighborWorks network organization, it was.
Yarimar took the Step-by-Step homebuyer seminar in November 2024.
“She went through counseling,” Aidoo said. “We looked at her credit and we worked on it.”
In a written recollection about her experience with HPNJ, Yarimar said she received clear guidance on her debt management. Within six months, she had paid off her car and credit cards as planned.
“Then we spoke to an intake specialist to coach her and guide her to help find a place where she might qualify,” Aidoo said.
Yarimar qualified for a two-bedroom condominium and Garcia added her name to the interest list. Those on the list go into a lottery and when a home goes on the market that clients are qualified to buy, they are given the option to buy it. “Our goal is to make sure we get people into homes – secure and stable homes,” Garcia said. “We work collectively whatever way we can.”
“We try to educate and guide as much as possible,” Otaegui said, adding that financial capability isn’t just for buying a home. “We don’t put a number on it; it’s navigating challenges with credit and savings and coming up with a goal. Whatever is comfortable to them.”
Once Yarimar spotted the listing for a two-bedroom home in Randolph, she had a feeling about it and requested to view the property. “Once I saw the home, I knew it was the one,” she said.
Adelaida Munoz, CDFI special coordinator, worked with her to secure $10,000 in down payment assistance. The money was essential in making the condominium affordable.
“I guided her through the application process, coordinated with our team, the attorney, the seller and the title company and ensured everything was ready on time,” Munoz said. “I also helped her understand what to expect financially so she felt supported throughout the process. It’s about removing barriers and helping families gain stability and confidence through homeownership.”
Otaegui said the DPA program is a zero-interest loan that is repaid when homeowners sell, refinance or rent out the home. When used with other resources, it can make the difference in a home being affordable or just out of reach.
The home was within reach for Yarimar. She closed Dec. 9 and moved in soon after. “Being able to say that I am the second generation in my family to achieve homeownership with their help truly speaks of the lasting impact of this program,” Yarimar said. “I am truly grateful for their help and guidance through this lifechanging journey.”
Garcia was the one who handed over the house keys. “It’s nice to say we got someone in a new home for Christmas,” Garcia said. “But for me, if I can get someone into a home, any time, I’m happy.”
