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'It was just amazing': Woman reflects on receiving affordable house from local non-profit

First Story is again taking applications for a new house, this time in Airway Heights. The house is on a 30-year loan with no down payment required and no interest.

AIRWAY HEIGHTS, Wash. — Shelly Hagood knows hard times.

"In 2011, I got a divorce and I lost my house," she said.

With a daughter and son, she needed to find a place for them to stay.

"We rented the basement of a friend's house, and then they ended up selling their house," Hagood said. "Then, I moved into an apartment off of Mansfield."

A friend recommended Hagood for the affordable housing program offered by non-profit First Story. The non-profit sells new or refurnished homes on a 30-year affordable loan with no down payment required. The loan also doesn't have an interest rate attached, and credit scores aren't taken into account. 

Hagood fulfilled the income requirements, completed the application and submitted letters of recommendation. 

Then, she found out she was being offered a house in Post Falls by First Story.

"It was just amazing. My parents came up from Oregon, I think my sister was here. So, it was just, it was amazing to share the experience with some friends and family," she said.

For Hagood, it wasn't just about getting a house for herself. It also meant more room to raise her kids Rachel and Alex, both teenagers.

"It was just a place that they could feel comfortable in and just know that they could come back to and would be stable," Hagood said.

Now, First Story is offering an affordable home again. The house is being built by Hayden Homes in their Pillar Rock Neighborhood in Airway Heights. 

Hagood said the program is definitely worth it.

"It is the most amazing program. If you're a hard worker and just take pride in ownership of your house, and to create a place for your family, it just, it's overwhelming," she said.

Information on the new home, how to apply

The Clearwater, a 1235-square feet house, will be available for residents to apply and has three bedrooms, two baths, and a two-car garage. The home comes with appliances, a washer and dryer, window blinds, and a landscaped yard.

The price of the house will be based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards for affordability at 80% of the area's median income.

To be eligible to apply for the house applicants must meet the following requirements: 

  • Have a Gross Median Family Income (MFI) below 80% of the area median income.
  • Not have any negative credit account or items in collections
  • Be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident alien status
  • Live in the Spokane area

First Story has helped more than 10,000 families through new home construction and financial support. For more information about the house or to apply, visit the First Story website.

    

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