Tips for First Time Homeowners

As we approach the end of 2024, IHA reflects on our continued commitment to making homeownership attainable and affordable for families at or below a median income. This year has been one of growth, innovation, and impactful community partnerships. A Personal Note from Cole Larkins I joined IHA as the Frederick County Property Manager just over a year ago, bringing with me a diverse background in property and portfolio management, residential mortgage finance, and entrepreneurship. Following a pivotal moment in my life in late 2021, I chose to leave a successful career in Baltimore’s finance sector to pursue a path that aligned more deeply with my faith and values—a path focused on uplifting others and creating meaningful change. This journey led me to IHA, where I have found profound fulfillment in serving our community and advancing our mission of affordable housing and homeownership. Celebrating the New Homeownership Program For more than a decade, IHA’s purchase & repair program has been a cornerstone of affordable homeownership in our region. In 2024, we have worked to sustain the availability of USDA-funded direct loans while also broadening our lending capacity within USDA guidelines. These efforts are designed to expand the scope of our services, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our communities. We very much look forward to our continued facilitation of USDA loans in 2025. We are also thrilled to announce a new initiative aimed at pairing households with community banks, lenders, and other resources outside the scope of USDA funding. This expansion reflects our commitment to empowering families with diverse financing options and creating pathways to sustainable homeownership. Community Partnerships Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. A special thanks to Danielle Adams of the Frederick County Building Industry Association for her invaluable support in fostering connections with local financial institutions. Dani’s efforts, alongside those of our community partners, have been instrumental in advancing affordable homeownership. We also extend our gratitude to the following community partners and their team members:  Woodsboro Bank: Richard Ohnmacht, Thomas Ramsay, and Erin E. Dietrich Patriot Federal Credit Union: Tricia Wareham Sandy Spring Bank: Kelly Vita and Houston Darling ACNB: Art Rathell Nymeo Federal Credit Union: Gwen Farrell, Marie Zinnert, and Jason Ambrose MLend: Chuck Via Building the Future Looking ahead, we are excited about the opportunities for new housing developments and deeper collaborations with regional nonprofits who share our mission of affordable homeownership. Technological advancements are also driving our efforts, as we fully integrate Salesforce and AI into our administrative processes to better serve our clients and community. An Entire Team Effort – Thank You Team! Our success reflects the dedication and collaboration of our incredible team: Program Leadership & Team: I am grateful for the guidance of Jodie Ostoich, our President and CEO, Rachel Gardner, our Programs and Grants Director, and Lacy Allen, our Financial Health and Digital Engagement Manager. Their leadership inspires our mission and fuels our success particularly in the homeownership program. Finance Leadership & Team: A special thank-you to Anna Rini and her exceptional team for their expertise and support throughout my transition into the homeownership program. Technical Assistance Partners: Frank Datillo and Jill Lordan of NeighborGood Partners have provided invaluable expert guidance, helping us navigate and strengthen our programs. Property Management Leadership & Team: Crystal Thomas and her team have done an outstanding job at the Residences at Railroad Square in Brunswick, MD, ensuring families have a beautiful place to call home. Their hard work and collaboration have helped me grow and thrive at IHA. A Season of Gratitude As I celebrate my first anniversary at IHA, which I marked on November 14, 2024, I feel immense pride and gratitude for the work we have accomplished together. This year has been a true labor of love, and I look forward to the continued growth and impact we will achieve in the years ahead. From all of us at IHA, we wish you a happy, healthy, safe, and prosperous holiday season and new year. Warm regards, Cole Larkins Homeownership Program Manager

Are you ready to take charge of your finances and kickstart 2025 with confidence? Starting this January, the Financial Freedom Bootcamp offers a practical, hands-on workshop designed to help you master budgeting, grow your savings, reduce debt, and set achievable financial goals. This program is perfect for anyone looking to make smarter money decisions and build a brighter financial future. The Financial Freedom Bootcamp was developed to revitalize our previous program, Prescription for Financial Health, which was offered via Facebook groups during the onset of COVID. In its earlier format, the workshop operated in person over three months with small working groups. This updated program condenses the same valuable knowledge into a shorter time frame, making it m ore accessible and efficient. Additionally, the new format brings clients back together for hands-on activities and in-person conversations, creating a more engaging and interactive learning experience. Whether you’re new to financial literacy or revisiting your goals, the Bootcamp is a fresh, modern way to take charge of your finances. The Bootcamp begins with Part 1, the Budget & Savings Workshop, held in person on January 8th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Part 2, the Optional Credit Café Workshop, will be held virtually on Zoom on January 15th, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Part 3, the Debt Reduction & Goal Setting Workshop, returns in person on January 15th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Finally, Part 4 is a 6-Month Progress Meeting, held virtually on Zoom at a time that works for you, where you’ll review your progress and update your financial plans. Participants in the Bootcamp will gain valuable skills to create and stick to personalized budgets, discover strategies to save effectively, master techniques for debt reduction, and set meaningful financial goals. Plus, everyone will receive a toolkit of worksheets, apps, and virtual resources to keep them on track long after the workshop ends. Registration is required and is completed entirely online. To secure your spot, contact Lacy Allen by emailing Lames@interfaithhousing.org or calling/texting 301-818-5606. Spots are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to transform your financial future. Get ready to take control of your finances and start 2025 on the right foot!