Knowing the ins and outs of buying a home is a big enough challenge, but imagine buying a home when English is your second language. Mirabel Cuevas, a native of Mexico, recently purchased a home with help from United Housing and its lender partner, Bank of Bartlett.

Although very excited about looking for a home, Mirabel was also a little bit scared. “I loved the class because I learned important information that I needed to know before I considered buying a home.” Mirabel took advantage of the UHI Spanish language homebuyer education program, which is designed specifically for Memphis’ growing Hispanic community. Based on the same national curriculum as UHI’s English language homebuyer education class, the Spanish language class focuses on the challenges of purchasing a home as an immigrant and links clients to lenders, insurance agents and realtors who are bilingual. This culturally sensitive approach has led many new Memphians to realize their piece of the American dream.

Mirabel’s first project in her new home was to paint and decorate. “I like being able to decorate and being able to do what I want to do in and around the house”. Mirabel is learning that being a homeowner has its ups and downs. Homeownership means new responsibilities and a big time commitment to maintain your home. No matter what, though, she encourages everyone to become a homeowner. “It’s made me feel more independent. I think everyone should work hard and buy a home. It is wonderful to be a homeowner.”

Mirabel purchased their home in 2005.