Nationwide — At the age of 77, Sherry Yates from Coolidge, Arizona, finally achieved what many consider the cornerstone of the American Dream—homeownership. Despite the challenges and setbacks that came her way, Yates never gave up on her dream of having a place to call her own. After years of renting and facing the uncertainties that come with it, Yates now enjoys the stability and joy of owning her own home.
The turning point in Yates’ journey came when she met Beckah Stiasny, a counselor from New Oakwood Homes. Stiasny provided Yates with the guidance she needed to navigate the intimidating process of buying and even building a home. Yates, who had struggled with her credit score, received help from Stiasny’s team to improve her credit and figure out how to save for the $12,000 down payment required for her $300,000 home.
After nearly a year of living in her new home, Yates reflects on the profound impact it has had on her life. She describes her new home, which boasts 1,700 square feet, four bedrooms, a two-car garage, and enough space to accommodate her mother, husband, and two children, as perfect. Yates takes great pride in her home, noting that there isn’t a single aspect of it she would change.
The sense of accomplishment and security that homeownership has provided Yates is palpable. She now hosts guests frequently, taking pleasure in sharing her beautiful space with loved ones. Owning her home has also given her a renewed sense of vitality, with Yates joking that sometimes she feels 35 years old again.
For Yates, her mortgage is more than just a financial obligation—it’s a privilege. She prioritizes her mortgage payments above all else, viewing them as a testament to her perseverance and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Her story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to achieve the American Dream, no matter the obstacles.
