Although homeownership is a cornerstone of the American dream and a powerful way to build long-term wealth, it feels out of reach for many families.
That’s why the American Property Owners Alliance is bringing the homeownership conversation directly to communities across the country through its Unlocking Opportunity Tour. In July, the tour stopped in Nashville at the Lake Providence Missionary Baptist Church to talk about the real-world challenges aspiring homeowners face. With the Black homeownership rate in Nashville estimated to be in the 41%–44% range, below the national average, the need for practical information and resources is clear.
“The Alliance is in Nashville because we believe every family deserves the opportunity to achieve the American dream of homeownership. Knowledge unlocks opportunities. By connecting people with trusted experts and practical resources, we're helping more families build wealth, strengthen their financial future and invest in their communities.”
– Colin Allen, executive director, American Property Owners Alliance
At the event, Alliance Executive Director Colin Allen joined local housing experts for a candid conversation about what it takes to become a homeowner, from building credit and saving for a down payment to understanding the homebuying process. The event also celebrated a local champion of homeownership by presenting the Alliance’s Golden Key Award to REALTOR® Debra Edwards, an agent with The Realty Association.
In August, the tour took the stage at the 2026 Invest Fest in Atlanta. The festival is centered on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, investing, real estate, wealth management and business.
Day 1 of Invest Fest featured two Alliance events. First up was a keynote by Unlocking Opportunity Tour Ambassador LaRese Purnell of CLE Consulting Firm. Purnell shared strategies for building wealth and creating long-term financial security. Next up, Purnell moderated a panel discussion on the role of homeownership and real estate in building wealth. Panelists included Allen, housing policy expert Ja’Ron Smith, investor and home-flipping mentor Chris Kendricks, and Beyond Wynn, a real estate investor and entrepreneur.
To close out Day 2, the Alliance hosted a reception that featured local cuisine and brought together panelists, festival attendees and local housing leaders to continue the conversation about homeownership, wealth-building and economic opportunity.
“Witnessing the impact that the American Property Owners Alliance brought to Atlanta at Invest Fest was phenomenal. The energy that Colin and LaRese brought to the room stirred thoughtful and engaging conversation on housing and today’s challenges.”
– Jeff Ledford, external affairs officer, Georgia REALTORS®.
The Unlocking Opportunity Tour is part of the Alliance’s ongoing commitment to helping more families achieve homeownership. By meeting people where they are and connecting them with practical information, trusted resources and local voices, the Alliance is helping communities better understand the opportunities and challenges involved in buying a home. The conversations taking place at tour stops are designed to close information gaps, expand access and support the long-term financial stability of families and neighborhoods.
Related:
- Unlocking Opportunity: Bridging the Homeownership Gap
- Unlocking Opportunity: Bridging the Homeownership Gap in Detroit
- Advancing the American Dream During Homeownership Month
The tour continues in Tampa, Fla; and Pittsburgh. Watch for updates on our social platforms: @OwnersAlliance on X and @propertyownersalliance on Instagram.
