Charlottesville Resident George Johnson Purchases His First Home in Charlottesville

George Johnson understands the importance of housing for a strong foundation and the availability of future opportunities. George’s work experience at Virginia Supportive Housing underscores that importance for him on a personal level.  That is why, after renting most of his adult life, he decided it was time to purchase his own home. George wanted something he could feel comfortable in and eventually pass onto his daughter. After talking with his uncle, George decided he’d like to buy the home where he spent much of his childhood – his grandmother’s house.  He started working on his own to make his dream of homeownership come true, but at a friend’s recommendation, George reached out to Piedmont Housing Alliance for assistance.

George started working with housing counselor Virginia Leary in July.  After completing the first time homebuyer class and talking about ways to receive help through Piedmont Housing Alliance, he was encouraged to keep pursuing his dream. In just a few months, George was able to reduce his debt and improve his credit score. By the fall, George received down payment assistance through Piedmont Housing Alliance, funded by the Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund. He was able to close on his home on Page Street by December.  After a month in his new home, George said, “It’s just an unbelievable feeling.  It’s wonderful!”

George wants other potential homebuyers to know that it’s not an easy process, but he said, “Just stick with it, have faith and it will all work out.”  He also said that going through housing and financial counseling did a lot more for him than enable him to buy a home. It helped him learn a new way of life that has created a sustainable future for him and his family.  Congratulations, George!