ST. ALBANS, WV (WOWK) – A 71-year-old woman from St. Albans finally owns a home thanks to a program from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“You don’t have to be my age, but you can be…” said Edna Contreras.

She was able to benefit from a home loan through USDA Rural Development Single-family housing direct loan which helps low-income applicants to become homeowners.

“I know it’s surprising to some people: ‘Is this your first home?’ ‘Yes, I never had the confidence,’ ”Contreras said.

USDA State Rural Development Director Kris Warner said, “This is a specially designed program for someone who cannot get bank financing but is creditworthy. “

Applicants are then placed on a payment assistance plan that temporarily lowers their mortgage payments, allowing them to own a home with financial security.

The program provides eligible safe and clean housing in rural areas with less than 35,000 inhabitants.

Contreras had lived in an apartment all his adult life. She got a $ 92,000 loan to buy a home and says she is now living the American dream.

“I’m paying less for a house than I was for renting, my utilities are a little cheaper… hey, that’s great,” Contreras said.

The program application process will vary depending on availability and demand in your region.