Congratulations to the Most Recently Successful First Time Homebuyer in Ocean County, New Jersey

Congratulations to resident Enrique DeJesus who closed on his new home at the DelCortivo Law Office in coordination with the O.C.E.A.N., Inc. First Time Homebuyer Program.

The First Time Homebuyer Program is sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners on behalf of the Ocean County Consortium through the Planning Department and is administered in partnership with O.C.E.A.N., Inc. Community Action Agency. Mark Lamela, the agency Housing Counselor, is the applicants point of contact assisting and guiding them throughout the entire process. 

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. often invest significant time and effort in each FTHB customer. This allows staff to understand an individual's unique circumstances, financial situation, and homeownership goals. This personalized approach is crucial for navigating the complexities of the FTHB process. This was the case with Mr. Enrique DeJesus as agency staff learned of his personal housing goal to provide a stable and supportive environment centered around his family members. 

In 2022, Enrique began the FTHB Program and attended workshops in three sessions. By 2024, he was approved for another property, unfortunately, the home had several issues which were disclosed early in the process. He decided immediately that it was not the right home, the contract was voided, and he continued his search for a home more appropriate for his family.

Prior to his grandmother’s death, Enrique made her a promise that he would buy the family a place to live. Explaining to agency staff, “Before she passed, I made that promise and I will follow through with that promise,” as he held back a flood gate of tears while telling his story.

He never revealed his homeownership plans to his immediate family, including his daughter. He wanted to furnish the home before announcing his accomplishment as a new homeowner. “I plan to get a huge picture of my grandmother and hang it in the doorway, said Enrique. “I told my mother, I did it, I kept my promise to her.”

“Enrique is the prime example of why we do what we do,” said O.C.E.A.N., Inc. Housing Counselor Mark Lamela and Director Sharonda Sheppard. “It’s why we’re out there working hard to help our customers achieve their goals with the closing of their homes during a time when the housing market continues to favor sellers, with high demand, low inventory and homes selling above list price.”

Special thanks to Real Safe Title, LLC. for the settlement services and realtor Kim Terebush of Coldwell Banker. Anthony Calandra of OceanFirst Bank was the lender for Mr. DeJesus and Sandra Iammatteo, Esq. of the DelCortivo Law Office performed the closing.

It is through the assistance of these partners and the entire Ocean County Consortium that Enrique can start the next chapter of his life with his family in their new Townhome in Brick, NJ and in remembrance of his grandmother.

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