Unique opportunity for homeownership – Now Accepting Applications Through February 12, 2021

Walla Walla, Wash. — In response to Walla Walla’s growing need for housing affordability, Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC), First Story and Hayden Homes have joined forces to provide a new homeownership opportunity to a local family. The home will be constructed by Hayden Homes, to a qualified applicant secured through BMAC, and sold through First Story’s 30-year non-interest loan program.
“The zero down payment requirement as well as the fact that credit scores are not required as a determining factor, encourages many to apply that would normally be restricted due to these mortgage thresholds,” said Claire Duncan, Executive Director of First Story.  “First Story is a testament to the giving spirit of our community and the positive results that come when we work together on creative solutions.”
Inspired by Hayden Homes’ belief in building a strong community, First Story was founded to help deserving individuals and families in need achieve the dream of homeownership. Since 1998, First Story has provided over 90 families across the Northwest with a hand-up to homeownership.
“We know people in our community lack access to affordable housing,” said Ted Koehler, BMAC Director of Housing. “With the state of affordable housing at a critical point, we are grateful to have an opportunity to work with committed partners, like First Story and Hayden Homes, to find solutions that help spark systemic change and economic development to make our communities more inclusive and affordable for everyone. Our hope is that we can utilize this partnership as a pilot program with the City of Walla Walla as a future housing affordability solution.”
The 1201 square-foot new home will feature 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a 2-car garage. In order to qualify, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including but not limited to: total gross Median Family Income before taxes at or below 80% of area median income; must currently have no negative credit accounts or items in collections; monthly gross income meets the minimum amount required to pay a monthly principal, insurance and property tax, payment. Those interested in applying will also be required to complete a Homebuyer Education 101 class, through another private partner, Academy Mortgage. The full application can be submitted or mailed to BMAC. For more details about the application process and materials, please visit www.firststory.org or contact Claudia Lemon at BMAC at 509-529-4980 or claudial@bmacww.org.  Interested parties must submit their application on or before February 12, 2021.
 
About BMAC
Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC), a Community Action Program in Washington State, is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3), multipurpose agency, serving residents in Southeastern Washington to meet the basic needs of low-income individuals and families. In partnership with our community, BMAC develops and implements strategies to prevent poverty and offers opportunities for neighbors to achieve greater levels of strength, independence, and self-sufficiency. For more information visit: bmacww.org.
About First Story
First Story is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable homeownership opportunities to hardworking families throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. First Story’s integrated approach to affordable housing gives families a hand up to homeownership while preserving dignity, respect, and encouraging inclusivity. Founded in Redmond, Oregon in 1998, First Story has helped more than 10,000 families through new home construction and financial support. For more information visit: www.FirstStory.org.
About Hayden Homes
Established in Redmond, Oregon in 1989, Hayden Homes has provided over 17,000 new homes to price conscious, value-driven homebuyers in underserved, secondary markets throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Hayden Homes continues to be the largest privately-owned new home builder in the Pacific Northwest.
Hayden Homes exists to Give As You Go™, so together we build a strong community, and lead fulfilled lives. Hayden Homes has contributed 3.25 billion dollars to local economies and has created more than 69,000 jobs since the company’s inception. Hayden Homes supports philanthropic efforts in the communities in which they build and have contributed more than 24.2 million dollars in charitable donations with the flagship of their giving through the 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, First Story. To date, First Story has provided over 90 deserving and capable families throughout the Pacific Northwest with a safe, healthy affordable home and a first step toward financial freedom. The Hayden Homes brand family of companies includes Simplicity by Hayden Homes, Wise Size Homes and Hayden Homes, all providing an unparalleled selection of opportunities for those looking to purchase a new home.

# # #