JACKSONVILLE, Fla., November 13, 2024 – JWB Rental Homes, Jacksonville’s largest locally owned residential property management company, and Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, announced Wednesday the launch of the JWB HomeStep program, a groundbreaking funding project designed to help residents move closer to homeownership. The HomeStep program will fund up to $16 million in equity incentives for participating renters to become homeowners. The HomeStep program is the first and only program of its kind in Northeast Florida. Program information is available at www.jwbhomestep.com.
Through the JWB HomeStep program, JWB renters can earn $100 in equity per month, up to a lifetime total of $3,600. This equity is committed by JWB each month for each renter. This equity can then be applied toward purchasing any home, whether owned by JWB or not. JWB Rental Homes currently has more than 5,800 rental homes in Jacksonville, the majority of which are considered affordable housing.
“JWB believes in creating opportunities that make a real difference,” said Alex Sifakis, president of JWB Real Estate Companies. “By launching the HomeStep program, we’re demonstrating our commitment to helping renters in Jacksonville by providing them with a tangible way to invest in their future and make the dream of homeownership a reality.”
HomeStep is a four-step process -enroll, earn, buy. Renters sign the JWB HomeStep addendum at the start of their lease, renewal, or any time during tenancy. Participating renters earn $100 in equity per month, up to $3,600 total. Then they can apply the accumulated equity toward closing costs when purchasing any home by working with JWB Realty. JWB also provides free homebuying education and counseling to help residents increase their chances of qualifying for a home.
HomeStep empowers renters through an exceptional chance to convert monthly rent into equity. The program provides more flexibility than traditional rent-to-own programs. HomeStep strengthens the local residential market as homeownership contributes to a stronger and more resilient community.
“HomeStep provides a significant pathway to homeownership,” said Sifakis.
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, built 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.
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