CREDIT AND MONEY MANAGEMENT

When you join a HOPE-700-Credit-Score-Communities group you will take classes with other individuals who are looking to improve their FICO scores. These classes will help you move your credit score to the 700+ range. You will learn the basics of making a budget, how to read a credit report, and what can be done to correct errors that may negatively affect your credit rating. The workshop, led by a financial wellbeing coach, will also cover your rights as a consumer, and how to make the most of them.

Topics Include:

• Budgeting
• Paying off debt and saving money
• Understanding your FICO score
• How to read your credit report
• Your rights as a consumer
• Settling accounts
• Disputing inaccurate information

HOMEOWNERSHIP

The Homebuyer Orientation is a good first step of the Homeownership Program. You’ll learn about:

• Key steps in the home buying process
• Down payment assistance programs
• The benefits of owning vs. renting
• Fixed and adjustable rate mortgages
• The loan process

The First-Time Homebuyer Workshop is a more extensive look at key topics surrounding homeownership and often includes guest speakers. Topics include:

• Loan approval
• Credit and debt
• Purchase contracts
• Escrow and closing costs
• Necessary paperwork
• Required savings and more

By enrolling in the Homeownership Program, you will also be eligible for one-on-one counseling sessions during which an Operation HOPE financial wellbeing coach will:

• Explain the Homeownership Program
• Establish your goals and needs
• Review income and savings documentation
• Review credit report
• Prepare a budget analysis
• Establish a plan of action

Operation HOPE financial wellbeing coaches also provide free mortgage delinquency counseling to existing homeowners who are at risk of losing their homes. Talk to the financial wellbeing coach at your local HOPE Inside to get started with the process or call our Mortgage HOPE Crisis Hotline at the toll-free number 888-388-4673(HOPE).