In Central Oregon, homeownership can feel like a dream reserved for someone else. Soaring prices, confusing finances, and a maze of missing information leave too many on the outside looking in. But that’s starting to change. At the NeighborImpact Homeownership Fair in Redmond on the evening of May 15th, the barriers started to give way—not with fanfare, but through honest conversations, hands-on guidance, and a community that shows up for each other. Hayden Homes and Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty are proud to be part of that shift as a committed sponsors.
This wasn’t just another “how to buy a home” seminar. It was a space charged with possibility—filled with first steps, fresh starts, and people ready to take control of their future.
“This event is the result of true collaboration among partners who care deeply about creating real opportunities,” said Sonia Capece, Director of HomeSource at NeighborImpact. “Our goal is simple but urgent: to help more people find a safe, affordable place to call home—and to show them that ownership isn’t out of reach, no matter where they’re starting from.”
Beyond the Market: A Human Story
The night wasn’t just about facts and figures. It was about Horacio, who worked for three years with NeighborImpact before finally buying his first home. About Stephanie, who earned a little too much for some programs—so the community built new ones to include her. And about Tina, a senior citizen and first-time homeowner whose joy was written across her face as she realized it wasn’t too late.
“I thought that at 60, I was done. That nobody would lend to me,” Sonia shared, recounting the Tina’s words. “She learned her age didn’t matter—and she could put down roots too.”
These are the kinds of stories that remind us why events like this matter. They shatter myths. They show people what’s possible. And they offer real tools—financial education, matched savings programs, and access to affordable housing developers actively working in the community.
Making the Rules Clear
One of the most powerful insights came when Sonia recalled how she started her own homeownership journey: “I didn’t even know what credit was. One of my educators says, ‘Credit is like the Monopoly game, but they forget to tell you the rules.’”
NeighborImpact is explaining the rules—making them transparent, equitable, and accessible. Through workshops and one-on-one guidance, they help people find the next concrete step on their journey, no matter where they’re starting from.
Why We’re In
At Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s, we understand that the road to homeownership in Central Oregon is steep. But we also know what it means—for families, for stability, for generational opportunity. That’s why sponsoring this event wasn’t just a checkbox for us. It was a statement of values.
“We’re not just here to sell homes—we’re here to invest in the future of our community. Supporting NeighborImpact’s Homeownership Fair means supporting access, education, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to own a place they can call home.”— Lia Powers, Marketing Team Member
It’s not enough to acknowledge the problem. We have to be part of the solution.
To all those who came out, asked questions, met with developers, and took that first step—we see you. And we’re with you.
Let’s keep building. Together.
Please dontate if you are able: