Black residents in Indianapolis continue to face inequity and disparity when it comes to home ownership, according to a new analysis from the Indiana University Public Policy Institute.

Analysts looked at disparities in lending related to homeownership and found that only a third of Black residents in Marion County own their home, compared to more than 60 percent of white residents. The analysis also found that Black and brown residents are less likely to apply for and are more likely to be denied home loans.

IU Public Policy Institute analyst Joti Martin said discriminatory home loan lending practices are one barrier for families trying to secure financial stability.

“In order to level up in life and to have all these opportunities open up, such as being able to send their kids to school, to have better jobs,” Martin said.

Majority Black neighborhoods also have higher rates of loan denial for refinancing and home improvement.

Martin, who led the research, said there are things lenders can do to help.

“It’s managing financial resources, and connecting residents to loan programs, but also building trust in these communities,” Martin said.

The analysis recommends banks and other lending organizations work to provide help, including down payment assistance and financial education.