New Year, New Home: Erica’s Journey to Home Ownership

January 14, 2026

The new year is already off to a strong start for Erica. A Wilmington resident, Erica is preparing to close on her very first home—an achievement years in the making and one she’s incredibly proud of.

For seven to eight years, Erica kept her eye on this goal while participating in the Wilmington Housing Authority’s One Stop Shop program. The One Stop Shop EnVision Center connects residents with essential resources, including education, financial management, job training, health and community services, employment assistance, and pathways to homeownership.

Like many aspiring homeowners, Erica’s journey wasn’t straightforward. “I think I was seven or eight years back and forth in the program,” she shared. During that time, she enrolled in the Stand By Me program, a free, personalized financial coaching service, where she worked closely with Marilyn, a Stand By Me counselor.

The program requires dedication, but Erica says the experience was invaluable. “To purchase a home, you have to budget to see where your money goes,” she explained. A mother of two—an 18-year-old and a 4-year-old—Erica works as a support professional for adults with disabilities, balancing family responsibilities while staying committed to her long-term goal.

One of the biggest challenges came early on, when Erica discovered an error on her credit report. A typo had mistakenly linked another person’s financial activity to her record. “With Marilyn’s help, I was able to clear the report,” Erica said. “Marilyn helped with the dispute letters. I really learned a lot, and I don’t want to run into that situation again.”

Marilyn remembers the process well. “It wasn’t quick or simple,” she said, noting that the issue originated in another state and took nearly two years to resolve. “It was damaging her credit. During that time, she also worked on her budget and reduced her debt. I can tell a client what to do, but they have to do the work. She did it, and now she’s able to purchase a home.”

Along the way, Erica also learned how to manage expenses more effectively. “I cut back on some things,” she said. “Marilyn also told me about an energy efficiency program. I reduced my electric costs, which can really add up.”

Now, with closing day approaching, Erica is excited about what lies ahead. “I’ll finally have a washer and dryer,” she said with a smile. “I want to fence in the backyard for my 4-year-old, and I’m planning to finish the basement.”

Looking back, Erica reflects on the lessons she’s learned. “I should have stayed in the program instead of going in and out,” she said. Still, her perseverance paid off. As the new year begins, Erica’s story stands as a reminder that determination, support and consistency can turn long-term dreams into reality.