Well parents, it is that time of year again. The time of year when your child will be heading off to preschool or kindergarten. This can be a trying experience for both you and your child. I remember the first time I sent my daughter off to preschool. As the day came closer and closer, the tears started to form and each time I looked at her, I knew pretty soon she would be going off to start her wonderful career in academia. On the first morning of school, I woke up pretty early and cooked her her favorite breakfast. I tried to stay as calm as possible, but I knew in a few short hours she would be out the door and on her way to school. I was so scared! Did I prepare her enough? Did I teach her all the right things? Like don’t talk to strangers, don’t eat off the floor? Wash your hands when you are done using the bathroom and make sure you wipe yourself? Listen to your teacher, and try your best…. (read the full article at the link below)

It is no secret that one of the things that keep the middle class going in our country is home ownership.  One program is making the dream come true for more and more people.

American Dream Down Payment Initiative

On December 16th, 2003, the American Dream Down Payment Initiative was signed into law. After years of debating and rewriting, the initiative finally became a practical, useful program for Americans.

The American Dream Down Payment Initiative authorizes up to $200 million annually to be spent between the years 2004 and 2007. The funds are provided to state and local institutions to fund programs that help increase home ownership in the United States. Alas, this is one of the positive ways the government uses our tax dollars!

The American Dream Down Payment Initiative was passed with the aim to help increase home ownership in the United States. This initiative is aimed primarily at low income families and minorities, groups that have had traditionally low rates of home ownership. The initiative seeks to help first time homeowners to overcome the two primary problems faced when buying a home: down payment costs and closing costs. The American Dream Down Payment Initiative can be used to help with down payment costs, closing costs, and rehabilitation assistance to any who fall eligible under the initiative. The amount of assistance provided cannot exceed $10,000 or 6 percent of the value of the home, whichever is greater.