A stepping stone to homeownership

Number 34 at the Kurrajong Townhouses in Kallangur has been home to Carlos, Adriana and daughter Victoria since the development was completed in November 2017.  After three years, the young family are now delighted to be in a position to step onto the housing ladder with the purchase of their first home.

Originally from Colombia, Carlos and Adriana made Australia their home 12 years ago. Both IT professionals, Adriana works in Caboolture, while Carlos works as a contractor for Queensland Rail.  They leave the Kurrajong Townhouses with happy memories.

“Four years ago we didn’t think that we could ever afford to buy our own home. We have really appreciated the opportunity to live at the Kurrajong Townhouses. The adjusted rent meant that we were able to save for a deposit.  For three years, our focus was saving – it was tough, but we are excited to be homeowners. We have built a new home in Rothwell,” Carlos said.

General Manager of Housing Services Alicia Follet, said that it gives her a great feeling to know that through our Affordable Living development, we have been able to play a part in this couple's housing journey.   

“Leaping renting to buying is a huge achievement. I'm delighted for them,” Alicia said.

The couple loved the community feel at Kurrajong, appreciated the helpful housing officers who were always willing to help and answer questions, and loved the community centre at the heart of the development.

“For us, the best thing about living here was having a secure garage and also with a little two-year-old we were grateful for the community area and barbeque. We often invited friends here, and with the enclosed community garden area, we knew that the children could play safely. It's a great space.  We used it a lot,” Carlos said. 

For Adriana,  even when times were challenging (which was not often), she said their faith was strong, and it carried us through.

“We loved our time here, and we honour our Lord Jesus Christ for what he has done in our lives and for the opportunity he has given us.  It’s only through his mercy that this has been achieved. We are forever grateful for what he has done in our lives. We are excited about the next chapter in our journey and would like to say a big thank you to all the staff at Churches of Christ Housing Services.”

All the best to Carlos, Adriana and Victoria in the next chapter of their housing journey.

Read more stories in the latest edition of Networking. 

  Posted 16 December, 2020 in Networking blog