Executive Director Update: February 2026

Dear Friends,

We are increasingly taught to think of homeownership as an investment first and a home second. Buy low. Build equity. Watch it appreciate.
 
Homeownership has helped many families build stability. But as housing has become more financialized—shaped by investment pressures, short-term rentals, rising construction costs, and climate realities—too many families are finding themselves priced out of the communities they love.
 
At Downstreet, we believe something simple and radical: a home is first and foremost an opportunity.
 
An opportunity for a child to grow up in one school system.
An opportunity for an essential worker to live near their job.
An opportunity for a family to build modest wealth without unsustainable risk.
An opportunity for community stability.

 
That’s why shared equity homeownership matters so deeply.
 
In this model, homes remain permanently affordable. Buyers receive down-payment assistance and agree to resale formulas that protect affordability for the next family. Homeowners build real equity—just not windfall gains that price out their neighbors. Public investment stays in the home forever.
 
Shared equity reframes homeownership from speculation to stewardship, and at Downstreet, we are leaning into that work creatively and intentionally. This year in Montpelier, we are building thoughtfully designed, net-zero ready homes that will be permanently affordable from day one. In Morrisville, we are converting former vacation rentals into permanent homes and placing six into shared equity—turning short-term investments into long-term belonging.

 
These projects require patience, partnerships, and layered financing. They may not produce the highest financial return. But they create something more important: durable opportunity.
 
In a market that too often prioritizes profit over people, we will continue choosing models that root families here and keep homes affordable for generations.

With gratitude,
Angie Harbin
Executive Director

Bonus: Learn About Downstreet's Homeownership Center

Downstreet's Homeownership Center provides a range of services to help people before, during, and after the home buying process. Our housing specialists can meet you where you are and direct you to the programs, services, and resources you need.

• Shared Equity Program: Our Shared Equity Program provides down payment assistance to income-eligible, qualified buyers.
• Green Mountain Home Repair: Is your home in need of essential repairs, access modifications, or weatherization? Apply for a special loan through our Green Mountain Home Repair Program and make your home safe and healthy.
• Vermont Housing Improvement Program (VHIP): If you're a landlord with vacant rental units due to code violations, you may qualify for up to $50,000 per unit in grant funds to bring your units up to code and back online! Click below to learn more about program requirements and how to apply.

Across every county and every community, housing stability is possible—and it starts with the right information, support, and opportunities. Downstreet is proud to help Vermonters build strong foundations for their futures. To learn more, visit our Homeownership Center page and select "Reach Out Now" to schedule a free consultation with an advisor.