APRIL PATTERSON
Realtor, Advocate, U.S. Navy Veteran
What is a Homebuyer Support Partner?
Homebuyer Support Partners are the heart of Skagit Habitat’s Homebuyer Program, providing essential guidance and encouragement to first-time homebuyers as they navigate the often complex and overwhelming homebuying process. Even for those with prior experience, purchasing a home can be daunting. But having a dedicated support partner makes all the difference.
These partners offer more than advice, they serve as trusted allies, helping new homebuyers every step of the way. Their role not only transforms the journey for homebuyers but also brings profound rewards to the partners themselves.
Take April Patterson, for example. A Homebuyer Support Partner since September of 2023. April’s journey highlights the incredible impact and fulfillment that comes from walking alongside families as they achieve the dream of homeownership. Her story is a testament to the power of connection, advocacy, and community in building brighter futures for all.
Over the years, my journey into real estate has been both unexpected and profoundly fulfilling. My interest in real estate grew from my work with veterans, where I spent years advocating for their needs. While networking and building partnerships to support housing solutions for veterans, it became clear to me that I could have a greater impact by deepening my understanding of the real estate side of “Affordable Housing.”
Fueled by this realization, I decided to pursue my real estate license. Within six months of becoming licensed, I found myself co-hosting first-time homebuyer classes with Cody Ellison from Banner Bank. Cody took a chance on partnering with a brand-new agent, and I’ll always be grateful for her trust and the strong relationship we’ve built. Together, we’ve worked tirelessly as advocates for accessible housing for all.
In my first year as an agent, I also took a bold step to immerse myself in advocacy. I joined the Government Affairs Committee of the North Puget Sound Association of Realtors, a role I continue to hold today. This opportunity allowed me to combine my passion for supporting veterans with the larger mission of advocating for equitable housing opportunities.
Through this work, I realized that when I was advocating for veterans, I was ultimately advocating for a basic human need: the need for shelter. This understanding profoundly shifted my perspective and broadened the scope of my advocacy.
One of the most transformative experiences on this journey was participating as a homebuyer support partner in a Habitat for Humanity project in Mount Vernon. I witnessed firsthand the immense dedication of volunteers and the profound gratitude of the families who would soon call these houses home. Together, we worked on building four homes—foundations for stability, security, and brighter futures. These homes symbolize hope and opportunity, serving as a powerful reminder of how community efforts can create lasting change.
The impact of volunteering is not just about the families helped today but about fostering communities that will thrive for generations.
Skagit Habitat for Humanity has shown an incredible commitment to expanding housing opportunities for everyone in our community. Their Anacortes project, which opened applications to families without children, reflects their belief in housing for all. This innovative step goes beyond traditional models and demonstrates that everyone deserves a safe and affordable home, regardless of family composition. It’s initiatives like these that highlight how Habitat is truly transforming lives and redefining what community means.
Consider these powerful statistics: children of homeowners are 116% more likely to graduate from college, and neighborhoods with high rates of homeownership see reduced crime rates and greater civic engagement. Homeownership not only provides stability for families but also fosters thriving communities. Affordable housing initiatives play a crucial role in breaking cycles of poverty, empowering families to build generational wealth, and strengthening the social fabric of our towns and cities.
This work has left a profound impact on me, reminding me of the importance of leaving a legacy that extends beyond ourselves.
Supporting housing initiatives means creating safe spaces where children can study, play, and dream, and where families can build stable, fulfilling lives. When we give our time, energy, and resources, we become part of something larger than ourselves—a movement to ensure everyone has the dignity of a safe and affordable home.
I share this story because I believe in the mission of Habitat for Humanity and organizations like it. Affordable housing is about more than just providing shelter; it’s about giving people the opportunity to break free from cycles of hardship and build better futures. I encourage you to join this mission. Your generosity can transform lives and strengthen our communities. Together, we can build not only homes but also legacies of hope, resilience, and opportunity. Let’s create a future where every family has a place to call home.
