Categories: Articles, Columnists, Harlem, Rev. Dr. Charles Butler,
Home Buying in Harlem
Be Prepared to Buy Now
By Rev. Dr. Charles Butler
The challenge for many first time low to moderate-income prospective buyers is obvious.
They do not have enough money saved for the down payment and closing costs. Most of these families are struggling to meet their current monthly living expenses. The high cost of living in New York City makes it almost impossible to save money to buy a home.
Another problem is that the inflated values of home prices in the area make it nearly impossible for low to moderate-income buyers to achieve their dream of homeownership. The annual incomes for most low to moderate prospective buyers have failed to significantly keep up with inflation. So, to buy a home today, you must create a plan of action that will help you combat this income deficit. It isn’t easy to aggressively save any money when all the money coming into the household is going out to pay the bills. A new strategy must be put in place to bring more money into your household.
To address this problem, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI), has established a partnership with the State Bank of India (SBI), and the Parodneck Foundation will be hosting an information/orientation session to inform community residents interested in an incubator to launch a small business venture.
The orientation session will be held on Thursday, April 13, 2023, from 7:00-8:30 pm, at the David N. Dinkins Gardens, 263 West 153rd Street. The session will also be offered virtually as well. Light refreshments will be served. You must register, and RSVP will be required if you plan to attend this event.
This program is intended to assist inexperienced entrepreneurs who are stuck at the “where do I begin or what should I do now” process. But if you are considering starting a small business, this orientation session will be beneficial in planning your next in the process. The incubator workshop series will be offered through a virtual platform. They will consist of group seminars, individual coaching sessions, assistance in writing a business plan, product development, and identifying potential customers.
Remember, if you can conceive it and believe it, you will be able to achieve your goal. To see the future, you must have a vision. Starting your own business can be the first step to creating additional income. It will take a great deal of hard work. You will have to sacrifice, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Start considering any special skills, aptitudes, interests, or ideas you have that could translate into a business venture. Step out on faith. Don’t be afraid to take a chance.
If you are interested in attending the incubator orientation session or the home buyer workshop series or just have questions regarding the home buying process, contact Rev. Dr. Charles Butler at (212) 281 4887 ext. 231 or email cbutler@hcci.org.
