Families who could not see themselves as homeowners of even sub-standard housing are now the proud owners of quality homes in the Riverside area of Oklahoma City thanks to the Latino Community Development Agency (LCDA).

The homes are the result of a collaborative effort between LCDA, Condor Development Corporation, and HUD. Six low to moderate income families are now homeowners, and 18 more homes are currently under construction. The addition will be named, "Mi Tierra".

"We feel Mi Tierra is located in a very desirable part of Oklahoma City since it is close to Rotary Park and other amenities", said Ernie Gomez, Executive Vice President of Condor Development Corporation.

LCDA is a comprehensive community-based organization dedicated, but not limited to, the Latino community in Oklahoma. LCDA's Riverside Community Center partners with a host of private and public community agencies to serve as the crucial point of contact for the growing Latino community.

Homebuyer education is one of LCDA's specialties. They emphasize that the first thing families interested in buying a home should do is educate themselves. Studies show that homebuyers who understand the process and the financing options available to them are more likely to buy a home they're happy with and less likely to be taken in by predatory lenders.

LCDA provides a very informative Homebuyer Education Class in Spanish the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Childcare and food are provided.

LCDA also provides one-on-one homebuyer counseling at the Riverside Community Center. Downpayment assistance may be available to families who qualify. To schedule a homebuyer counseling appointment, or to register for Homebuyer Education, call LCDA at (405) 236-0701.

To find out how HUD can help you achieve the American dream of homeownership, call 1-800-CALL-FHA. English and Spanish speaking operators are available. Or visit our Homeownership page.

You'll also learn about assistance programs, HUD homes, and how to avoid predatory lenders.