
20/07/2025
Jacksonville Residents Get a Head Start on Homeownership with New Incentive Program
For many renters in Jacksonville, the dream of homeownership feels just out of reach. Rising prices, upfront costs, and limited inventory have made it harder than ever to take the first step toward building long-term stability and wealth for families.
But a local company is changing that narrative.
JWB Rental Homes, one of Jacksonville’s largest affordable housing providers, launched the HomeStep Program to help bridge the gap between renting and owning. The program rewards current JWB residents for what they’re already doing: paying rent on time each month.
With each on-time rent payment, residents earn $100 in credit toward the purchase of a home of their own. Over time, those credits can add up to $3,600 - money that can be applied toward closing costs or down payment. Residents can begin using those rewards after just 12 months of renting their home.
“Homeownership is really important to building neighborhoods, to building generational wealth, and we want to be more of a part of that,” said JWB President Alex Sifakis. “The Homestep program is an investment in our residents' futures and in the strength of our community."
Since launching the program in 2024, more than 2,900 residents have enrolled, and 18 renters have already become homeowners. It’s part of JWB’s $16 million commitment to give back to the Jacksonville community, focusing on making homeownership more attainable for working families.
While the HomeStep Program is only available to current JWB residents, it’s becoming a factor for renters looking to relocate.
“For people searching for their next rental home, this program is a major value-add,” Sifakis explained. “You can rent with us now, and start earning toward your future home at the same time.”
Whether you’re already living in a JWB home or thinking about making the switch, the HomeStep Program offers a rare chance to turn monthly rent into real ownership potential.
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Learn more about how the HomeStep Program can help carve your path to homeownership at jwbrentalhomes.com/homestep.