Q: Do I have to have a home loan with HomeOwnership Center to participate in the educational classes?
A: No, our classes are open to anyone in our eight county service area and we welcome those interested to contact us. However, if you are outside of one of the eight counties in our service area, feel free to reach out to us!
Q: Do you work with all income levels?
A: The HomeOwnership Center works with all income levels and has many programs and services for a wide variety of people.
Q: Why should I come to the HomeOwnership Center?
A: The HomeOwnership Center offers members the tools and knowledge they need to become informed consumers and successful homebuyers. 8 hours worth of Homebuyer’s Education courses provide an overview of the home buying process and what lenders expect (online education also available). Counselors help members address their obstacles to home ownership. The HomeOwnership Center continues to provide educational opportunities and counseling after the purchase to ensure your success as a homeowner.
Q: Can you help me if I’ve owned a home in the past?
A: Yes. We provide assistance to everyone who wishes to purchase a home or wants to be educated about the purchase process.
Q: Are there any income limits to your services?
A: No. Services are open to everyone, regardless of income.
Q: Do I make enough money to qualify for a mortgage?
A: Classes and counseling will cover mortgage qualification as well as planning to address barriers to getting a mortgage (if applicable.)
Q: How much can I borrow?
A: Lenders look at the buyer’s income and debt to determine how much a family can afford to pay for housing. This amount is based on a percentage of the family’s gross income and takes into consideration the monthly payments on long-term debt. The percentages used vary from loan product to loan product. Actual affordability will vary based on the loan product and the buyer’s financial situation.
Q: If I have a lot of debt will this affect how much I can borrow?
A: Yes. One of the biggest obstacles facing many homebuyers is too much debt. Your monthly debt is taken into consideration when a lender determines the mortgage amount for which you qualify. Our counselors will show you how to determine how much debt is too much and, if necessary, help you develop a debt reduction plan.
Q: Can you fix my credit for me?
A: No, only you can improve your credit. However, the HomeOwnership Center can help you through the process. Habits that improve a credit score are discussed in the Homebuyer’s Education Classes. Counselors will help you apply the knowledge from class to your own situation.
Q: How do I find out more about your program?
A: You can call our main phone line: 304-636-9115
Q: What does your program offer?
A:
- Homebuyer Education classes (live sessions and an online version)
- Individualized Counseling
- Workshops for home owners
- Post purchase counseling/services
- Home Loans – purchase
- Refinance
- Home Improvement Loans
Q: Is there a benefit to receiving a homebuyer education certificate (issued after all classes are completed)?
A: Besides the value of the information received during class, the certificate of completion fulfills requirements for homebuyer education (the online education classes are approved by USDA.)
Q: I am almost ready to purchase my home and am required to attend homebuyer education classes – can you help me?
A:We offer the Home Buyer Education course through e-Home, a web-based program for prospective first-time homebuyers. The online education class may support your need to take classes within your required timeline – however, it is important for you to check with the lender or organization that is requiring it to ensure online education fulfills its program guidelines. The online education class may support your need to take classes within your required timeline – however, it is important for you to check with the lender or organization that is requiring it to ensure online education fulfills its program guidelines.