HUD-Certified Housing Counselors are experts in the home buying process. They are familiar with all the issues you can encounter, and know all the programs available to help you at the federal, state, and local levels.
You might be wondering, “Shouldn’t my real estate agent be able to help me with all those things?” Real estate agents are experts in the local housing market--not financing, government assistance, budgeting, and credit repair. Real estate agents are best equipped to help people who are ready to buy a home right now. Housing counselors can prepare you for homeownership before you ever go to a showing.
Housing counselors can provide:
- Expert education
- Personalized support
- Cost-saving resources
- Demystify the process
- Answer questions without bias
Individuals who use a housing counselor save an average of $11,300 in debt on their home purchase, and they are less likely to end up in foreclosure. And, it’s never too late to benefit from a housing counselor! You can even benefit after the sale by finding out how you can save money on refinancing, or with help creating a new household budget to meet your financial goals.
Using a Housing Counselor before the Purchase
Housing counselors save homebuyers money by identifying down payment assistance, homebuyer programs, and other assistance that they qualify for. They also help homebuyers put together a plan to manage debt and improve their credit score so they can put more money toward their house and less toward paying additional interest and fees. A housing counselor can also help you plan for the expenses associated with home ownership, like repairs, maintenance, and escrow adjustments.
Housing Counselors are your best friend
why would i talk to a counselor. am I in trouble?
