Agency Turns Eyesores Into ‘I Own’

Daniel Argott Jr. grew up on Remmet Avenue. It’s the street where his father was born. His grandfather came to Canoga Park in 1919.

Despite those deep roots, Argott never thought he’d own a home in the community, because of limited income and his big family.

But thanks to an innovative new program designed to help low-income families own their own houses, Argott recently fulfilled his dream.

“I just come home, and I’m happy to own a house. I don’t know how to explain it,” said Argott, 34.

The Argotts’ house was rehabilitated and financed through the Canoga Park Home Ownership Initiative, which is also refurbishing four other houses in the area with funding from the Los Angeles Housing Department and other private grants and sources, said Ellen Michiel, executive director of the nonprofit West Valley Community Development Corp.

The Home Ownership Initiative is one of three programs the West Valley agency has developed to help turn blighted or earthquake-damaged homes into family housing. Today, city and agency officials will gather to break ground for a townhouse project on Alabama Avenue. Also planned is a bungalow project for seniors on Valerio Street.

The Argott family moved into their renovated home in November. With three bedrooms and 1 1/2 baths, a spacious living room with fireplace and remodeled kitchen, the Argotts’ house makes for a comfortable new life. But there was a time when Argott, his wife, Graciela, and their three children never thought they could call a house like that home.

“With the money I’m making I didn’t think I would be able to buy a house,” said Argott, who works as a shipper/receiver at a dental supplies company in Canoga Park.

At their church the Argotts learned about the home ownership program. But before they could move in, the house had to be completely refurbished.

“It was filled with trash and vermin,” remembered Michiel. “After I came home the first thing I did was take a shower.

“We go after the worst properties on the street. We look for the ‘god-awfuls’,” said Michiel.

Her agency bought the house for $79,000. After three months and $60,000 in renovation, the house was ready, sporting new appliances, wiring, plumbing, paint, carpeting, windows and doors.

“We called it the little house that could,” Michiel said.

Government grants and loans cut 40% from the home’s price, leaving the Argotts with a $65,000 mortgage.

With help from family, the Argotts raised the $4,900 down payment. They pay $545 a month on their 30-year mortgage, compared to the $700 a month in rent they used to pay for a house with a leaky roof.

“Families are forced to rent. They have lived here for generations, but they can’t buy because houses are too expensive,” said Michiel. “This program allows them to be stakeholders.”

Potential renters or home buyers may contact the West Valley Community Development Corp. at (818) 888-6990. Priority is given to current Canoga Park residents.

Editorial researcher Stephanie Stassel contributed to this story.