When Luis and Marisol walked into our community homeownership workshop, they were carrying more than questions — they were carrying urgency. Their lease wasn’t being renewed, their move-out date was approaching fast, and they were expecting their first child any day. The mix of excitement and fear was unmistakable. After the workshop, our homeownership counselor met with them to review their credit, income, and timeline. Every option felt too slow for their situation — until their loan officer discovered they qualified for the Washington State Housing Finance Commission’s Covenant Homeownership Program.
Suddenly, what felt impossible became achievable. But the clock was still ticking.
They had only weeks to find a home, go under contract, secure financing, close, and move before the baby arrived. That’s when the collaboration truly began. Angkear, their real estate agent, moved quickly to help them find a home that fit their needs and the Covenant requirements. Tina, their counselor, stayed connected through every document, question, and moment of worry. William, their loan officer, navigated the Covenant process with precision and calm. And our WSECU closing team made sure everything was completed on time.
On key-day, Marisol held her belly and laughed, “The baby didn’t come early — but the house sure did.” Later, they sent a photo of their newborn sleeping peacefully in their new home, along with a note: “You gave our family a safe start. We’ll never forget this.” A home before baby.
This story was submitted by David Puszczewicz, Director Community Lending and Homeownership Development, WSECU.
