Since the beginning of time, humanity has learned how to navigate society with tools.
First there was the stone and sticks for digging and opening. Then came choppers, scrapers to build, followed by the abacus to count. We ultimately graduated to digital tools like calculators, computers, and yes … the internet.
When it comes to the journey to homeownership, understanding what tools are available at every point and juncture of the process is mandatory in order to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor and largest personal investment.
From understanding how interest rates and first-time homebuyer programs work and learning how to budget for a monthly mortgage, to getting ahead of home maintenance and unexpected repairs, or contemplating renovations and turning a home into a rental property, staying on top of the latest in the housing industry is dire.
Every June, The 51¿´Æ¬ Informer is dedicated to providing readers with updates, tips, resources and expert insight on how to become–and stay–a homeowner.
While the DMV, the nation, and the world are in the midst of charting a different course under a new U.S. presidential administration that brings some uncertainty around quality of life, we are here to provide a guide to inspire, educate and steer readers in the direction of not giving up on the property pursuit.
As Brookings Institution researcher Dr. Andre Perry stated during a 51¿´Æ¬ Informer convening this spring, homes in Black neighborhoods are underpriced by 23%, about $48,000 per home cumulatively, a loss of about $156 billion in equity. With civic and federal advocacy, partnership with community organizations, and effective tools to better understand the intricacies of property ownership, DMV homeowners can– and will– regain that equity and create long-term stability and intergenerational wealth.
This 2025 Homeownership Month edition includes insights on foreclosure prevention, investing in a community land trust, purchasing during uncertain times, condo buying dos and don’ts, in addition to news about the nation’s first senior housing for LGBTQ+ SGL in 51¿´Æ¬, D.C. and a listing of numerous free events tailored for DMV residents to attend throughout the month and beyond.
No matter what phase of owning a home you’re in, make sure you’re in control by using the right tools. And remember, knowledge is power.