Story: A Move Toward Homeownership

In 2011, Talise Owens-Hundley moved into Glenbrook Apartments as a single mother with two young girls. Talise was grateful for the help she was receiving, including rent assistance and food stamps, but knew she wanted more for both herself and her family. “I wanted to get off the system,” Talise commented.

“I am grateful for the patient and firm support of the staff over the years. I feel fortunate to have been a part of CommonBond Communities,” said Talise. She has lived at Glenbrook Apartments in Milwaukee for the last six years. Talise was on a mission.

“My goal is to be a homeowner and in my new home by fall!”

 

Soon after moving in, she enrolled in school and received her associate degree in early childhood education and then a few years later graduated with a bachelor’s degree. Throughout this time, she received several promotions and no longer qualified for public assistance.

It was also around this time that she married her husband, John, and her oldest daughter graduated from high school. While Talise was worried about her daughter as she struggled her way through school, she is now proud to say that her daughter graduated with her associate degree and is traveling the world as a flight attendant for American Airlines.

With all of the changes in Talise’s life, she recently made the decision that it was time to move out of Glenbrook Apartments. “When I told Nichole, the property manager, that I would be moving so my youngest daughter could attend a top-notch school, she nearly fell off her chair at the outrageous amount of rent I was going to be paying for half the size of my existing apartment.”

Nichole suggested Talise meet with a lender and begin the process to purchase a home. “I am excited to say that I have been approved for a loan and am working with the lender to save for a few months. My goal is to be a homeowner and in my new home by fall,” said Talise. “I don’t think I would have made that leap without her encouragement.”Looking back on her time at Glenbrook Apartments and the progress she’s made, Talise says, “I’ve come a long way, baby!”

Our Impact

Every day, our supporters, volunteers, staff, and community members make our work possible. Below you can view our latest annual report with resident testimonials, stories of impact, program statistics, and financial information.