“Essentials for First-Time Homebuyers” is a FREE comprehensive six-hour course that prepares renters to make the transition to homeownership. The course educates participants about types of financing available, how to obtain a mortgage, first-time homebuyer subsidy programs, fair housing practices, how to create and manage a budget, shopping for a home, selecting a neighborhood, home inspection, tax benefits of being a homeowner, the closing process, post-ownership, home maintenance and repairs.
Free individualized counseling is provided to help clients attain their personal financial goals. Some individuals require only a few months to become mortgage ready, while others work with CCFC counselors for several years to rebuild or establish credit and resolve financial issues. Workshops are offered on Saturdays, twice a month. Follow the links below, or you can email our department at: Housing@ccfcfl.org. Once we received your registration confirmation from housing@ccfcfl.org we will email you the intake application with instructions for the class
UPCOMING VIRTUAL CLASSES
Key Steps to Buying Your Home
| 1. Timing | Is your timing based on a job offer, downsizing, or moving out before your lease is up? |
| 2. Priorities | What must your home have (number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a yard, a garage, in-law suite)? At times the Market dictates we should narrow our priorities |
| 3. Workshop | Attend a Centro Campesino Homebuyer Education Workshop to learn all the steps in the homebuying process. Our workshop Certificate enables your lender to apply on your behalf for down payment assistance funds. |
| 4. Pre-Approved | Knowing how much of a mortgage you can afford is vital before you start looking for a home. Your lender will review your income and credit and issue you a Pre-Approval Letter that your realtor will need. |
| 5. Realtor | Picking the right realtor is also important. They will show you homes in the neighborhoods and price range that you can afford. |
| 6. Inspection | When you have a home under contract you will need to schedule a home inspection by a licensed home inspector who will tell you want needs to be repaired, what needs to be replaced, and the cost for each. |
| 7. Insurance | You will need insurance on your home. You should start by asking your car’s insurance company if they can also offer you a home insurance policy. |