Think homeownership is out of reach? You’re not alone. Long shifts, rising prices, and generic advice leave many essential workers — from nurses and teachers to social workers, paramedics, and firefighters — feeling stuck in the rental cycle. But here’s the truth: thousands of essential workers became homeowners in the past year — often with smaller deposits and repayments lower than rent. In this step-by-step guide I unpack how you can achieve their homeownership goals (even if you think you’re not ready).