March 2025 Lender News

'Helping Families Find Their Forever Home':

Garth Realty Associate Broker Wins Realtor of the Year

For her dedication to serving Alabama homebuyers with AHFA programs, AHFA is pleased to recognize Ja’Mese Hawkins of Garth Realty Group as our Realtor of the Year for FY 2024.

“Ja’Mese’s dedication and passion for helping families achieve their dreams of homeownership is truly inspiring. From the moment we met her, it was clear she goes above and beyond to ensure every family she works with feels supported throughout the home-buying process,” said Single-Family Administrator Carrie Hamaker.

Hawkins was awarded at a special ceremony at her Montgomery office last month.

“Thank you so much for this amazing recognition,” she said. “It has been my absolute honor to receive this award. I am forever grateful for all that the Alabama Housing Finance Authority has done to help my clients achieve homeownership.”

Ja’Mese uses AHFA programs like First Step and Step Up to help her clients. She credits AHFA with providing the type of programs that align with her passion to help families reach their homeownership goals.

“I am forever grateful for all that Alabama Housing Finance Authority has done to help my clients achieve homeownership.”

Ja’Mese Hawkins, Garth Realty Group

Cathy James and Alana Beaugez of AHFA visit Realtor of the Year Ja‘Mese Hawkins and Garth Realty owner CeCe Savage

“This program has been vital to a lot of homeowners,” said Ja’Mese. “It put a lot of first-time homebuyers in positions to purchase that would not be able to, had it not been for the assistance they received from AHFA’s down payment assistance program.”

AHFA’s First Step and Step Up programs provide second mortgage loans for up to $10,000 or 4% of the sales price, whichever is lower.

“We are incredibly grateful for Ja’Mese’s partnership in helping families find their forever homes using our programs. Her unwavering dedication and compassionate approach are what make her stand out as a true leader in real estate,” said Hamaker.

To watch a spotlight video of Ja’Mese receiving her award, click here. For more information on AHFA programs, visit www.ahfa.com.

HFH Tuscaloosa Director Recognized by USA TODAY

Ellen Woodward Potts, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa, has been honored as one of USA TODAY‘s Women of the Year. This accolade celebrates her dedication to community service and her blend of compassion and business acumen.

A native of Huntsville, Ellen earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Birmingham–Southern College and an MBA from the University of South Alabama. Her association with Habitat for Humanity began in 1997 when she moved to Tuscaloosa and started volunteering. She served as board secretary until 2013, when she became executive director.

Under Ellen‘s leadership, Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa has achieved remarkable milestones. Notably, the organization is collaborating with The Builders Group to develop the Milestone Neighborhood in West Tuscaloosa, a project that will introduce 32 new affordable homes to the area. This initiative not only addresses housing needs but also provides invaluable job training opportunities for local high school students and individuals served by United Cerebral Palsy, equipping them with essential skills for future careers.

“We are proud to call Ellen our friend,” said Carrie Hamaker, AHFA's single-family administrator. “Her dedication to improving the lives of others shows the deep impact that compassion, when paired with strategic vision, can have on a community.”

AHFA Programs Help Guild Lenders Reach More Customers

Last quarter, these Guild Mortgage lenders and others closed mortgage loans using AHFA programs, earning their company top recognition for 4Q24. Below are the reasons they shared for using First Step and Step Up to help homebuyers stretch their savings and find homes they can afford.

Shelley Faulkner

“AHFA has allowed my team to open doors for borrowers of all spectrums. Their flexible loan programs give us the tools to create the perfect loan in most scenarios. With low interest rates and flexible down payment assistance, we can build each loan tailored to fit the client's needs. We love how many options we can present to the customer to make sure they get exactly what they need!”

Kristina Davis

“The AHFA program enables me to connect with a broader client base by offering down payment assistance options. Many first-time homebuyers, particularly younger individuals, often lack the necessary savings to meet the down payment requirements for their first home. This program provides valuable opportunities for these individuals to achieve homeownership.”

Casey Parsons

“AHFA programs are an amazing fit for anyone that falls within the qualification parameters! Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, keeping money in your pocket is never a bad idea in this economy!”

Realtors and Lenders, Let's Connect! We Want to Meet You!

Are you a mortgage or real estate professional who wants to know more about AHFA programs? AHFA offers on-site training on our programs that covers borrower and property eligibility, processing, documentation, income calculations and more. Our “Doing Business with AHFA” class qualifies for 3 CEUs, certified by the Alabama Real Estate Commission. To schedule an informational visit or training session, simply email Alana Beaugez.