A program that helps teachers, police and firefighters, among others, save money has brought a realtor, a broker and a teacher together.
They are here because of a program called Homes for Heroes where active, retired and reserve military, police, firefighters, EMTs, healthcare workers and teachers save lots of money through special discounts.
"It’s not just for buying a home,” realtor Irvin Beacham said. “It’s also for re-financing and selling a home. They can save when they re-finance their home. They can save when they sell their house and they also can save when they buy a house.”
That saves thousands of dollars. The program also benefits wounded and homeless vets.
“Me being a veteran myself, I couldn’t resist being able to give back to the community,” Beacham said.
For teacher and almost new-home owner Amy Schechter, it’s a dream come true.
“I don’t think it’s really set in truly yet,” Schechter said. “I think it’s still kind of this magical thing that we picked out and it’s getting there. It’s definitely getting there. We are so excited because it’s going to be our forever home.”
And it can get downright emotional.
“It has been an honor working with you and I am so proud to announce that she’s my hero,” broker Tina Guinn said about Schechter.
A modification to the program since Sept. 1, has home buyers receiving their welcome home savings check after the purchase closes.
“To feel the appreciation, I just have such gratitude for the people that started this,” Schechter said.