10,789 Consumers Get Credit Ready for Homeownership
A Public-Private Partnership That Positively Impacts Lives When HomeFree-USA partnered with Experian® to offer the Experian CreditCenter® to homebuyers and homeowners, the goal was ambitious but simple: provide 5,000 consumers with a free tool to improve credit and their financial health. Twelve months later, the HomeFree-USA nationwide network of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies did not […]
Why Women-Owned Businesses Get Declined for Funding (and How to Prepare Instead)
Applying for business funding takes courage. Whether it’s for expansion, equipment, working capital, or a new location, applying for a loan or line of credit represents growth. So when an application is declined, it can feel personal — even discouraging.But here’s the truth: funding denials are common, and they are often fixable. For women-owned businesses, […]
Separating business and personal finances: Why It’s important
by Gary Stockton The entrepreneurial spirit often starts with bootstrapping: using your personal resources to fuel the initial spark. But as your business grows, separating business and personal finances becomes crucial, not just for legal and tax implications, but for the very future and success of your business. The Shield of Protection: Safeguarding Your Assets One […]
Hispanic Homeownership Is Sustaining the U.S. Housing Market
The future of homeownership in the United States is being shaped by a powerful and often underestimated force: Hispanic homebuyers. According to the 2025 State of Hispanic Homeownership Report by NAHREP – National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals®, Hispanic households are not only participating in the housing market—they are driving its growth and sustaining […]
2026 Small Business Health Check
Entrepreneurs and small businesses are often prime targets for fraud and financial misuse, and would benefit from greater visibility, tools and expertise to defend themselves effectively. In fact, 59% of businesses report that fraud losses have increased compared to previous years, with identity theft, new account fraud and payment fraud topping the list.1 Active monitoring of business credit reports and effective fraud protection can help small businesses: Businesses can stay vigilant in two […]
Women Fear Their Lenders When They Need Them the Most
Mortgage providers want to help their clients, and they have programs designed to help homeowners get through a financial crisis. But many women who have suffered a recent job loss are afraid that asking for help will hurt them in the long run. HomeFree-USA recently held a focus group with women across Maryland who have […]
Empowering Tomorrow’s Real Estate Leaders: Develop the Developer 2025
At HomeFree-USA, our mission has always been to expand pathways to homeownership, build wealth, and strengthen communities. The Develop the Developer℠ Academy (DTDA) advances that mission by transforming the pipeline: not only helping families purchase homes, but preparing local entrepreneurs to build them. Addressing a Critical Industry Gap Women, Black, and Hispanic real estate developers currently […]
A Will is Not Enough… Preserve your legacy and maintain peace of mind.
50% of people in the U.S. don’t have an estate plan,” says Aimee Griffin, a Maryland attorney and civil rights activist. “And in the Black community, that drops to 30%. Often, each generation has to start over when it comes to acquiring property,” eroding this foundation for intergenerational wealth.“Having real property is THE real opportunity […]
Highlighting the March to Black Homeownership
Wells Fargo is not only working to make sure homeownership is accessible to all groups, but they are educating communities about the disparities that exist. Wells Fargo teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to develop the Advancing Black Homeownership Exhibit, one of the highlights at this year’s Reaching Millions Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the […]
HomeFree-USA Founders Jim & Marcia Griffin Receive Wharton Award
On November 9, HomeFree-USA co-founders Jim Griffin (COO) and Marcia Griffin (President and CEO) are thrilled to be honored at the 52nd Annual Golden Gala Joseph Wharton Award Dinner, recognizing six leading Wharton & Penn alumni for their exceptional accomplishments and contributions. About our fearless leaders, they write: “Jim Griffin, WMBA’71, COO, & Marcia Griffin, CEO, […]