A Key Largo family has realized their dream of homeownership with assistance from Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys (HfHUK). On June 29, community members gathered on Valencia Drive to honor new homeowners Rafael Perez and Yanet Miranda.

Perez, a local business owner who has operated a car wash for 15 years, and Miranda, an employee at Sandal Factory since 2007, have worked diligently over the years to achieve their goal of owning a home. Their efforts culminated in this achievement with support from HfHUK.

Habitat homes are sold to partner families at no profit, financed through affordable, no-interest loans. The organization employs a rigorous selection process to identify families who meet specific criteria.

Scott Goss, executive director of HfHUK, explained that the organization utilizes a strict vetting process for families applying for affordable housing. Habitat homes are sold to partner families, who must meet low-income household guidelines for Monroe County, at no profit. These homes are financed with affordable, no-interest loans.

“We go out and do site visits to their current home and see their living conditions. At Habitat we look for need and ability to pay … because we’re not just giving away homes,” Goss stated, emphasizing the program's requirements. Qualified families are also required to contribute “sweat equity” before taking ownership of their new homes.

HfHUK expressed appreciation for the contributions of CBT Construction, the builder of the home. Gratitude was also extended to donors, including Publix, Baptist Health Mariners Hospital, Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, and Ocean Reef Community Foundation, whose support made the project possible.

The Keys Weekly has been a consistent source for local news and real estate updates in the Florida Keys. For more information on local housing initiatives and community stories, readers can visit Keys Weekly. Information on affordable housing programs can often be found through national organizations like Habitat for Humanity, which has a local presence in the Upper Keys. Readers interested in the broader real estate market in Florida can consult resources such as Florida Realtors.