Homes for Heroes Helps Dreams Come True

Krystine Shonfelt of west Cobb believes in giving back to those who give to her.

Shonfelt is a realtor with the "Homes for Heroes" program, whose purpose is to help heroes get giant discounts and professional help when wanting to buy or sell a home. The program was created after the events of 9/11 as a "thank you" to the men and women who gave so much that day.

"These people give to me every day," said Shonfelt, an associate broker with Keller Williams Realty and president of the West Cobb Business Association. "The police and firemen protect me, teachers educate, healthcare workers keep me healthy, and military personnel fight for my freedom. What can I do for them?"

Homes for Heroes partners with local realtors, lenders and other service providers to give their services, as well as substantial rebates and discounts out of their own pockets.

"Close to $4,000 came out of her own pocket," said Shane Fry, a local law enforcement officer who tried the program and worked with Shonfelt when purchasing a home in Canton.

"I thought it would be too good to be true," said Fry. "It was a really easy process and Krystine was very helpful and professional.  Her entire team went way above and beyond what I imagined."

Fry and his wife of eight years, Jennie, have two children and are enjoying thier new home. "It's a really special way for them to show their thanks to us for what we do each day," said Fry. "There's a lot of sacrifice on the part of our families when you're in law enforcement, and I am really thankful for this kind of support."

Shonfelt's team includes Gianni Cerretani, a lender with MiLend, Inc. who offers loan discounts and help in preparing an offer on a home. Other "Friends of Heroes" she works with include closing attorneys, home inspectors, and GeorgiaLocalSearch.com, a local online business directory that gives military vets a free website to start their own business.

"These folks feel the same way I do about giving back to those in our community who give so much," said Shonfelt, adding she contributes 25 percent of her gross commission to the buyer to go towards closing costs or to a charity of their choice. "We want to support our heroes in any way possible. They often say to me, 'Thanks for giving me a place to feel safe.'"

For more information on Homes for Heroes, visit their website at www.homesforheroes.com or contact Krystine Shonfelt at 678-907-6266.