Property is Power! Two Powerful Paths to Homeownership for Black Families

November 25, 2025

The Property is Power initiative has launched two separate homeownership programs specifically designed to address historical barriers that have prevented Black families from buying homes. The first program eliminates down payment requirements entirely, accepting credit scores as low as 580 and imposing no income limits, allowing qualified families to purchase homes without upfront cash. The second is a lease-to-own pathway where a government entity purchases the home and families lease it for 12 months while building credit before assuming the mortgage.

Who is affected

Black families across America seeking homeownership
Hardworking families who can afford monthly mortgages but lack upfront cash for down payments
Individuals and families not currently meeting traditional mortgage requirements
Families with credit scores down to 580
People who need alternative income documentation options
Future generations of Black families building generational wealth

What action is being taken

Property is Power is offering a Down Payment Assistance program with no borrower down payment required
The initiative is accepting credit scores down to 580
A qualified FHA-eligible government entity is purchasing homes upfront for the Lease-to-Own program
Families are moving into homes as future homeowners and leasing for 12 months
The Property is Power Dream Builder is offering a tailored environment for those not meeting FHA standards

Why it matters

This initiative addresses the largest barrier to Black homeownership—upfront cash—in a system historically designed to exclude Black families through redlining and discriminatory lending practices. Homeownership enables Black families to build generational wealth, equity, and financial stability rather than building wealth for landlords through rent payments. The programs provide economic mobility, tax benefits, community stability, and dignity while creating opportunities that research shows can reshape family trajectories for generations, including higher graduation rates and increased community involvement.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle