Serving Memphis and Shelby County

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About Us

What is the Harris Homeownership Foundation?

The Harris Homeownership Foundation is an operating foundation committed to conducting impactful programs to foster sustainable homeownership and community revitalization. At the core of our mission lies our primary program: the acquisition, renovation, and sale of houses so aspiring homeowners can significantly reduce their monthly housing expenses and build equity.

Our Why

Addressing Barriers to Homeownership

UNLOCKING THE BENEFITS OF HOMEOWNERSHIP

Homeownership is not just about owning a house; it’s about owning your future. By unlocking the benefits of homeownership – economic stability, increased financial resources, enhanced health and well-being, and greater neighborhood stability – we are empowering individuals and families to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SUPPORT

Recognizing the significance of community engagement, our homeownership journey is bolstered by neighborhood partner organizations, vital in program development and resource identification. As applicants progress towards home purchase, they’re seamlessly connected with local initiatives, fostering active involvement and contributing to community stability and enhanced civic engagement.

SUSTAINED SUPPORT AND ENGAGEMENT

Our commitment to new homeowners extends beyond the point of sale. We will maintain contact with homeowners for three years post-purchase, inquiring about their home satisfaction, participation in neighborhood activities, and overall well-being, ensuring ongoing support and engagement.

OUR APPROACH

We purchase houses and renovate them, ensuring they are attractive to prospective homeowners and minimizing major expenses in the crucial initial years of ownership. These homes are then made available for purchase at affordable prices, helping to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality for individuals and families seeking homeownership.

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide affordable homeownership opportunities to marginalized communities in Shelby County, including low-income, LGBTQ, Black, and Indigenous individuals, as well as other persons of color. By offering homeownership options cheaper than renting, we aim to empower financial stability and create stronger, resilient communities that have historically been neglected and exploited.

ADDRESSING BARRIERS TO HOMEOWNERSHIP

Despite valuable resources like coaching, down payment assistance, and accessible mortgage policies, high interest rates and inflated home prices remain formidable barriers to homeownership. Neighborhood blight necessitates renovating existing houses, while residents require affordable housing options. The Harris Homeownership Foundation remains committed to providing quality homes with mortgage payments lower than current rent.

Equity Through Homeownership

Our Impact

We delve into the transformative power of homeownership and its profound effects on individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods. At the Harris Homeownership Foundation, we are dedicated to making sustainable homeownership accessible to cost-burdened renters, empowering them to achieve economic stability, build generational wealth, and create thriving communities.