Honoring The History of Women and Mortgages

by Patricia Ellams, Foreclosure Specialist in Mortgage Default at The Waterfront Project

Women have long fought for equality in all areas of life, including homeownership. During Women’s History Month this March, which began in 1987, we celebrate their resilience and progress in securing financial independence. From overcoming legal barriers to leading in real estate today, women continue to shape the housing market and redefine their economic power.

Until recently, women faced significant barriers to owning homes, and the journey wasn’t easy. The 1862 Homestead Act was an early breakthrough, allowing widowed, divorced, or deserted women to own land and settle in the American West. Well into the 20th century, societal norms and legal restrictions made property and land ownership difficult, often requiring a husband’s consent. The change gained momentum with the women’s rights movement. The women’s rights movement helped drive significant change. The Fair Housing Act of 1968—later expanded in 1974 to include protections against sex discrimination—helped outlaw discriminatory practices in housing, while the Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974 gave women the right to obtain credit and mortgages without a male co-signer.

As the times have changed, it’s worth noting that single women now outpace single men in homeownership across the U.S., a testament to their financial independence and economic power.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seeking housing assistance, or looking to connect with experts in real estate and mortgage assistance, come talk to us at The Waterfront Project, advocating for immediate solutions in Housing Counseling.