Finding Homeownership with the Help of Those Who Understand
Are you looking to buy your dream home in Columbus? For many immigrants and refugees, finding a place to call their own has always been a distant dream. But with the help of real estate agents who have experienced similar journeys, homeownership is now within reach.
Helping Buyers Conquer Homeownership
Both Sinan Falah, an Iraqi American real estate agent, and Mohamad Mizyan, a Palestinian buyer, understand the challenges of starting over in a new country. Mizyan shared that in his home country, owning a home was an unattainable dream. However, with the guidance of agents like Falah, he now has the opportunity to create a better future for his family.
Falah's personal experience as an immigrant and his background as a civil engineer have made him a valuable asset in the real estate industry. He goes beyond just buying and selling properties; he educates first-time buyers on the real estate and wealth management systems, demystifying complex terms for them.
Breaking Barriers in the Real Estate Business
The real estate market in central Ohio is becoming increasingly diverse, with more agents from immigrant and refugee backgrounds joining the industry. These agents provide crucial cultural translations that build trust and facilitate smoother real estate transactions for immigrant clients.
Hasina Nelson, a real estate agent from Trinidad and Tobago, emphasizes the importance of education in the process. Immigrant and minority communities may face unique challenges due to a lack of generational homeownership experience. Agents like Nelson help bridge this gap, ensuring clients understand the nuances of the home-buying process.
Bhim Dulal, a Bhutanese Nepali Realtor, remarks on the increasing number of Realtors from his community. Overcoming language barriers and unfamiliarity with local regulations can be challenges for immigrant agents, but their unique perspectives and cultural understanding make them assets in connecting with diverse clients.
Embracing Cultural Preferences
While immigrants and refugees share similar desires for safe neighborhoods and quality schools, there are also culturally specific preferences when it comes to finding a home.
Sinan Falah assists Muslim buyers in finding homes that align with their religious beliefs. He helps them explore Islamic financing options, which adhere to Islamic principles. Cultural preferences also play a role in the decisions of buyers like Mizyan, who seeks a home with a private backyard to accommodate his wife's attire.
Desalen Golla, an Ethiopian American Realtor, highlights the advantage of immigrant agents understanding the needs of a diverse community. Their ability to connect with clients from different backgrounds enhances the home-buying experience and helps establish trust.
Overcoming the Homeownership Barrier
For many first-generation homebuyers, the process of buying a home can be daunting. Hasina Nelson, featuring prominently in the African American community, understands the importance of being relatable and approachable. The comfort of sitting across the table from someone who understands their journey can encourage buyers to conquer the homeownership barrier.
The impact of homeownership goes beyond the purchase itself. It provides a foundation for individuals and families to thrive, leading to new job opportunities and even the start of new businesses. Agents like Falah take pride in witnessing the positive transformations that occur when clients achieve their dream of owning a home.
The presence of immigrant and refugee real estate agents in Columbus is breaking down cultural barriers and empowering buyers to navigate the real estate market with confidence. Their expertise, empathy, and cultural understanding pave the way for diverse communities to find their place to call home.
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