Taylor and Kyle's Journey to Homeownership

Taylor and Kyle’s journey to homeownership in Vermont began with a desire to raise their son, Mitchell, in a supportive environment similar to Taylor's own upbringing. After leaving Chicago, the couple moved to Vermont in 2017, drawn by the family support available there.

Settling in Warren, Vermont, they found employment at Sugarbush, which provided free daycare for Mitchell. However, housing in Warren was scarce. Kyle’s knee surgery temporarily halted his work, but made the family eligible for Downstreet’s Wheeler Brook Apartments, a vital step in their journey.

Their six years at Wheeler Brook were challenging but transformative. Affordable rent and free daycare allowed them to save money and build credit. The family aspired to buy a home, but the competitive market during and after the COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult. Despite facing high prices and frequent disappointments, they persevered. When the Downstreet Shared Equity Program house in Warren became available, they seized the opportunity.

After missing out two previous opportunities to purchase a Shared Equity home, their patience paid off. They remained diligent, keeping a close watch on new listings and maintaining constant communication with Downstreet. Their persistence culminated in finding a suitable home, allowing them to keep Mitchell in the same school and stay close to their jobs.

Taylor and Kyle’s journey from renting to owning a home through Downstreet’s Shared Equity Program exemplifies resilience and determination. They navigated financial hardships and market challenges to achieve their dream of homeownership, showcasing the importance of affordable housing programs in transforming lives.

Their journey to homeownership in Vermont underscores the transformative power of affordable housing programs. Their story is a testament to how these initiatives can enable families to stay in their communities, build financial stability, and have more housing choices.

The availability of programs like the Downstreet Shared Equity Program plays a crucial role in helping Vermonters like Taylor and Kyle achieve stability, maintain their support networks, and secure a brighter future for their children.