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NCST’s work increases access to homeownership, promotes resilient neighborhoods, and advances racial equity by advocating for policy change.
An outdated, vacant condominium is now home to a 25-year veteran high school special education teacher in Crystal Lake, Illinois, who recently divorced and needed a new affordable home near her school.
This buyer qualified for a mortgage that only required a $3,000 down payment, and she noted that “right when she walked in this rehabbed unit, she fell in love with the updated kitchen, and was pleased the home would fit her budget.” She was also thrilled that the unit was downstairs so she doesn’t have to carry groceries upstairs. This teacher was able to quickly close, move in, and set up her new home before school started.
NCST community buyer, KeySay, purchased this two bedroom, two bath property and spent more than $20,000 in rehabbing the unit including refinishing the kitchen cabinets, and installing new countertops, plumbing fixtures, a new sink, and new appliance package. The bathrooms received new toilets, vanities, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, and mirrors. KeySay also replaced the tile floors in the foyer, hallway, and kitchen, as well as the carpeting in the living room and bedrooms. In addition, all interior doors were replaced, a new washer/dryer combo was installed, new light fixtures were added, and fresh paint was applied throughout.
The condo also offers a screened-in porch, which this teacher can use to entertain or just relax on nice days. It’s also conveniently located to the Metra, nearby parks, restaurants, and shopping centers.
NCST’s work increases access to homeownership, promotes resilient neighborhoods, and advances racial equity by advocating for policy change.