You are reading that correctly--classes for home buyers! If you are just starting the home-purchase process, you may get overwhelmed when you find out all that is involved. Sadly, it is not as easy as finding a house, paying for it, then moving in. It is a great idea to learn all you can about the purchase process as well as being a homeowner. 

 

  • The Department of Housing and Urban Development has a list of free classes in every state, from credit counseling and home maintenance to housing for seniors. Select your state and find all that are available. 
     

  • Sign up before you have found a house you want to purchase! However, if you are purchasing your home through FHA, USDA, or other agency, you may be required to take the courses. 
     

  • Before deciding what workshop is best for you, make sure it is certified through HUD, and any credit courses are nonprofit and accredited by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies.  
     

  • Credit counseling should take place about six months before you start looking at homes so you can learn about improving your credit score and creating a budget. You want the highest credit score possible in order to receive pre-approval for a mortgage. 
     

  • HUD-approved counseling agencies usually offer one-on-one sessions so you can get a better understanding of your financial situation, as well as answers to questions you may have. 
     

  • Many workshops have more than one “instructor;” you will hear from lenders, appraisers, inspectors, and insurance agents who will discuss their roles in the home-buying process. 

  • If there is no way to save or pay a 20% down payment, taking a workshop can help you find low down payment mortgages, as well as any grants that may be available in your community. 

 

When dreaming of buying your own home, do not allow the amount of information to overwhelm you and keep you from even trying! All it takes is this first step, and you will find that a home-buyer course will show you will not be alone on the road to homeownership. Once you learn the ropes of the process, you will feel confident when you contact a RealtorⓇ to begin your search. 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins.