National Homeownership Month is a time to focus on the path to the place you call home and on the resources to get there. The month might be wrapping up, but for many, the journey to homeownership is just beginning.
If you're considering homeownership, check out these tips from some of our NeighborWorks® network organizations. Do you work at a network organization and have a tip we should add? Let us know! 
“I encourage clients to hold their goals with care and intention. At times, others may unknowingly project their own fears or doubts, but protecting your vision allows you to stay grounded, confident, and fully aligned with what you’re working toward.”
Tisia White Director of Program Management & Strategic Initiatives, Piedmont Housing Alliance
“Get your full financial picture in one place before you start shopping. That means pulling together your credit report, monthly budget, debt-to-income ratio, and a realistic savings plan for down payment and closing costs.
“Know before you say 'go'. A housing counselor is a great and often free resource to help you prepare for the journey to homeownership.”
Collin Kelly, CEO, NeighborWorks Pennsylvania
“Prepare for homeownership by stress-testing your budget against today's mortgage rates, not the rate you hope for later. Get pre-approved early, so you know exactly what you can afford, including property taxes, insurance, and maintenance, which is often forgotten. If you can sustainably handle the payment at current rates, you're economically prepared. Any future rate drop becomes upside, not a dependency. Finally, strengthen your position by working with a lender and a HUD-certified housing counseling agency that provides access to down-payment and closing-cost assistance programs, making out-of-pocket costs more affordable from day one.”
Sasha-Gaye Angus, President & CEO, Manna Homes
“Pay down your credit cards, and if you've already paid down your credit cards, start saving for those closing costs. Those are always a surprise to people. And then just buckle up. It can be a long process. Be tenacious.”
Caitlin Wargo, Interim Executive Officer, Adirondack Roots
“To me, patience is the key. Slow and steady! There are a lot of pieces to homeownership. To me being patient will be very helpful in the process.”
Craig Petry, Executive Director, CommunityWorks in West Virginia
