JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 27, 2025 – JWB Real Estate Companies, Jacksonville’s affordable housing leader, announces its HomeStep program has officially helped its first three families become Jacksonville’s newest homeowners. HomeStep, launched in November 2024, is a $23 million commitment from JWB to help residents on the path to homeownership. HomeStep is the first and only program of its kind in Northeast Florida. For more info, visit www.jwbhomestep.com.
JWB has always assisted residents become homeowners and previously helped 11 residents buy homes before the HomeStep program was established. JWB assisted previous buyers through free homebuying education classes, credit repair support, and expert real estate advice.
The three HomeStep program homeowners closed on their homes in March and April 2025. Sandra Brooks and King Hartley, and Marquita and Oliver Green each closed on their family’s new homes on the Northside. Jaqueline Mendoza closed on her family’s new home in Arlington. The HomeStep program was retroactive when launched so these residents were able to take full advantage of this funding gift immediately.
“I am so glad JWB helped me purchase a home; everyone was wonderful to us through the process,” said Sandra Brooks. “I am so glad we purchased, and JWB gave us the opportunity to get our home. Every day when we walk through the house, I feel overwhelmed and thankful we were able to buy our home”.
More than 2,100 residents are enrolled in the HomeStep program and 45 are actively engaged in the home search and buying process.
“HomeStep is a powerful tool our residents are using to catapult them into owning their own home,” said Alex Sifakis, president, JWB Real Estate Companies. “Saving for a home and the associated costs can be overwhelming, and JWB is proud to be a resource for our residents and help them on their homebuying journey. We know generational wealth is realized through homeownership and are excited to see our residents reap the financial benefits that come with owning their own home.”
HomeStep empowers renters through an exceptional chance to convert monthly rent into equity. Homeownership strengthens the local residential market and contributes to a stronger and more resilient community. In the JWB HomeStep program, JWB residents earn $100 in equity per month, up to a lifetime total of $3,600. This equity is then applied toward purchasing any home, whether owned by JWB or not. JWB provides free homebuying education and counseling to help residents increase the chances of qualifying for a mortgage.
JWB is dedicated to Jacksonville’s growth and success which goes beyond rental housing. Through its nonprofit JWB Cares, the organization has donated over 7,200 volunteer hours, donated six homes for families in need, and raised $650,000 for local causes. JWB’s partnership with Gateway Jax, a $500 million Downtown revitalization effort including the Pearl Street District, reflects JWB’s deep investment in the city’s future.
JWB Real Estate Companies, including JWB Real Estate Capital, JWB Property Management, and JWB Rental Homes, is a privately-owned organization serving the Jacksonville region. JWB is dedicated to providing high-quality rental homes and exceptional service while enriching the lives of its residents. Beyond housing, JWB is deeply committed to making a difference in the Jacksonville community through active engagement, charitable giving, and the city’s revitalization efforts. Founded in 2006 in Jacksonville, JWB is the city’s largest locally owned residential property management company and is the city’s leading provider of affordable housing.
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