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WHEN IT COMES TO BUYING A HOME, BECOMING EDUCATED IS THE KEY.
Whether completing an HUD-approved, self-guided course or working with trained housing counselors in your community, you will learn how to save for your home purchase, work with lenders and real estate professionals, understand the mortgage process, and ensure you are well-prepared for homeownership.
HOMEBUYER EDUCATION TOPICS INCLUDE:
Preparing your finances
How your credit affects homeownership
Mortgage programs and processes
Down payment and closing assistance
Shopping for a home
The importance of having a home inspection
The closing process
Home maintenance responsibilities
Predatory lending practices and avoiding foreclosure
Fair housing
“Housing counselors are transparent. They make the homebuying process easier.”
Natasha Jones , Homeowner
WHAT IS A HOUSING COUNSELOR AND HOW CAN THEY HELP YOUR FAMILY?
Buying a home can be intimidating, especially for first-time buyers. A housing counselor can help assess your financial situation, educate you on the homebuying process, explore down payment options and types of mortgages, and provide budget guidance.
Housing counselors are trained, independent professionals who are available to offer advice, listen, and help you make informed decisions based on your financial situation and needs. Although it is not required, it is recommended that first-time homebuyers work with one.
Counselors are certified through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD-certified housing counselors are uniquely qualified to educate individuals about the homebuying process. Working with a housing counselor can be highly beneficial for a few reasons. They can:
Help you make a step-by-step action plan to meet your goals.
Educate you on how to work with a realtor, what a bank looks for in the mortgage application, the importance of title insurance, home inspection, home insurance, and the actual closing process.
Work with you to overcome common barriers to homeownership, such as low income, bad credit or no credit, and excess credit card debt.
Help you identify FHA programs that help first-time homebuyers in your area, such as down payment and closing cost assistance programs.
Help you understand exactly how much home you can afford to buy, so you can narrow your search and ensure you buy a home without facing a high risk of foreclosure.
Housing counselors help you navigate the homebuying journey and ensure you are financially prepared for long-term, successful homeownership.
Find a local housing counseling agency and make an appointment.