Preserving Homeownership Through Legacy Planning and Partnership
A Talk by Tammy Thompson and Joe Tomaceski
About this Talk
In many low- and moderate-income communities, particularly those shaped by generational economic exclusion — first-time homeownership often comes with significant personal and financial sacrifice. Yet the long-term stability these homeowners seek is too often threatened by systemic barriers like tangled titles, unresolved estates, disrepair, tax delinquency, and mortgage default. These risks are heightened by the fact that legacy planning is rarely introduced as part of the homebuying process.
This session presents an equity-driven, cross-sector pilot initiative designed to make homeownership not only accessible, but sustainable and transferable across generations. In partnership with First Commonwealth Bank, the initiative requires first-time homebuyers to attend a succession and estate planning workshop as a condition of closing. This proactive approach ensures that new homeowners begin their journey with tools for long-term asset protection.
Speakers will share how this model builds on broader efforts in homeownership preservation, including tangled title resolution, delinquency interventions, and critical home repairs. The session will also explore complementary services — such as legal aid, financial counseling, and coordinated repairs — that reduce the risk of displacement. Participants will gain insight into the systems-level changes needed to embed equity in both nonprofit housing services and traditional lending practices.