Honoring Black Leaders in Housing Advocacy

Homeownership within the Black community has never come without challenges. From discriminatory practices to limited access to credit and resources, the journey to owning a home has often been an uphill battle. Yet, thanks to the relentless advocacy of housing pioneers committed to Black homeownership, we’ve witnessed progress—allowing more Black Americans to secure the homes they deserve. Their work continues to inspire change, paving the way for greater equity in homeownership. As we celebrate Black History Month, we celebrate the Black leaders who paved the way for many, advocated for those who felt they had no voice and fought tirelessly for housing equality and affordable homeownership.

Someone very passionate about the advancement of Black homeownership was Robert Church Sr. In the late 19th century, Church founded the Solvent Savings Bank with a goal to extend credit to Black people so they could buy homes and develop businesses despite widespread discrimination. His work laid

the foundation for financial empowerment in Black communities. Another powerhouse in Black housing advocacy is Dorothy Height. A powerful leader in the Civil Rights Movement, Dorothy Height fought for fair housing legislation and worked to end housing discrimination.

Known for their contributions in many cities around the country, the National Urban League has been a major part of the advancement of Black homeownership. During the 1960’s their executive director, Whitney M. Young Jr. played a key role in the advocacy of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 – a monumental win for housing justice.

In recent years, many are working to see change and a leader behind these efforts is John Hope Bryant. Founder of Operation HOPE, Bryant has dedicated his career to bridging economic disparities, recognizing that financial stability is essential for sustainable homeownership. Housing within the Black community has made significant strides, but there’s still work to be done. According to the

Census Bureau, in the fourth quarter of 2023, 45.9% of Black Americans owned their homes—significantly lower than the 73.8% homeownership rate for non-Hispanic White Americans during the same period.

While progress has been made—the Black homeownership rate rose from 42.2% in 2019 to 44.2% in 2021—it remains below the levels seen in 2000. This serves as a reminder that the fight for housing equity continues, and the work of those who paved the way must be carried forward. Their advocacy laid the groundwork, but it’s up to us to build on their legacy—championing policies that promote fair lending, increasing access to financial education, and dismantling the systemic barriers that still hinder Black homeownership today.

 

4 important tips to consider when preparing your 2024 Income Tax Return

It’s income tax time, and you’re prepping for homeownership. Here are 4 tips to consider when preparing your 2024 income tax return including why you shouldn’t claim a business loss when applying for a mortgage loan.

Claiming a business loss on your income tax return can negatively impact your ability to qualify for a mortgage loan. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Reduced Income: Mortgage lenders typically look at your income to determine your loan repayment ability. If you report a business loss, it reduces your overall income on paper, which can make it harder to qualify for the loan amount you need.
2. Debt-to-Income Ratio: Lenders use your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to assess financial health. A business loss can increase your DTI ratio, making you appear riskier to lenders.
3. Self-Employment Challenges: If you’re self-employed, lenders scrutinize your income more closely. Reporting a loss can raise red flags about the stability and profitability of your business.
4. Loan Type Considerations: Different types of loans have varying requirements. For example, VA and FHA loans may require business losses to be considered in your debt ratios, which can affect your eligibility.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a mortgage advisor or tax professional to understand how your specific situation might be impacted.