Local Mother Overcomes Housing Challenges with USDA Rural Development Program in Calais

Heather Gagne, a mother of four, lived in a small rental home in Machias, Maine, with several issues including a leaking roof and electrical problems. Due to a limited budget and scarce housing options, she couldn't find a better alternative. A realtor friend suggested the USDA Rural Development program as a potential solution.

Heather contacted the Presque Isle, Maine office of the USDA Rural Development program. Housing Loan Specialist Stacey and Housing Loan Technician Mariah assessed her financial situation. They concluded that Heather could buy a home, but she needed to improve her financial status and commit to the home-buying process. Over the next eighteen months, Heather worked with Stacey and Mariah to raise her credit score and understand the local real estate market.

Despite challenges, Heather stayed focused. After eighteen months, she was approved for a $131K mortgage. However, most houses in the area were beyond her budget. Heather, with the support of her realtor Crystal Wild and the Rural Development team, started looking for a suitable home.

Heather found a Federalist style house in Calais, Maine, within her budget and suitable for her family. The house was an hour away from their current home, and Heather was worried about her children's response to the move and the house's necessary repairs.

Two years into the process, Heather was close to finalizing the purchase. Her children accepted the idea of moving, and with the support of her realtor and the Rural Development team, she managed to negotiate the purchase price, handle the home inspection, and include the necessary repairs in the mortgage. The family moved into the new home on February 7, 2024. Heather thanked the USDA Rural Development housing staff for their help throughout the process, which made it manageable for her.

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