Certified First Time Home Buying Classes

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, many communities sponsor first time Homebuying programs. The purpose of these programs is to educate you about the purchase process, to teach you how to figure out what you want to do, and to show you your options. One benefit of taking these classes is that many communities tie the certificate received from completing these programs to benefits. These benefits include:

• Financial assistance for down payment or closing costs
• Access to specialty mortgage products
• Participation in affordable homeownership lotteries

The second benefit is that what you learn will help you understand the purchase process better. You will be provided with materials that you can reference after the class is over. Most of the programs offer a one-on-one consultation where you have an hour to determine your next best step.

One of the important things to look for in a program is an unbiased presentation. If you go to a program sponsored by a lender or real estate agent, there will be some expectation that you work with their people. The certificate may be limited to purchases made by their agents or mortgages financed through their brokers.

There are programs which are certified through the Citizens Housing and Planning Association’s Massachusetts Homeownership Collaborative. These programs are offered to benefit first time buyers who are purchasing property in which to live. The programs have minimum education standards, one-on-one counseling support, and a pledge to provide unbiased information to all those who participate in the program. To find a Certified Homebuying Program in your area, click here.  You can also find more programs at the HUD website.