Homebuyer Counseling

Ready to begin your journey to homeownership? MMI is proud to offer a variety of homebuyer counseling and education services. Whether you're looking for certification to satisfy the requirements of a loan program or simply want to know more about what it takes to be a successful homeowner, we've got the solution for you.

How it Works

Prospective homeowners have two primary options: one-on-one homebuyer counseling and self-guided homebuyer education courses.

Homebuyer Counseling

During a one-on-one homebuyer counseling session you'll work together with a trained counselor to review your finances and formulate a plan to help you find a home you can afford. The goal is to help you understand where you stand and what steps you'll need to take in order to save an adequate down payment, qualify for an affordable mortgage, and successfully manage the month to month costs of homeownership.

If applicable, your counselor may discuss available loan programs and their requirements.

You should leave your session with a budget, a clearly defined plan of action, and a certificate of completion (if applicable).

Online Homebuyer Education Courses

In additional to live, one-on-one homebuyer counseling, MMI also offers online homebuyer education courses. These courses are self-paced, engaging, and mobile-friendly. All courses are available in both English and Spanish.

Each course is designed to prepare you for every facet of the home buying process. You can sign-up and begin a course at any time.

Course prices range from $45 to $99.

Who Can Benefit?

Buying a home is one of biggest financial commitments you can make. Homebuyer counseling and education can help anyone who plans on purchasing a house in the near future, but is especially helpful for consumers who:

  • Are struggling to build a large enough down payment
  • Worry that their credit may not be strong enough to qualify for a prime rate mortgage
  • Don't understand the monthly costs associated with owning a home
  • Need to complete a homebuyer counseling or education course in order to qualify for a specialized loan program

Frequently Asked Questions

We're here to help! Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. If your question isn't covered below, click "CONTACT US" at the top of the page to submit your question.

Is there a fee for homebuyer counseling?

Is there a fee for homebuyer counseling?

There are a variety of homebuyer counseling options available. The maximum fee for homebuyer housing counseling is $159. Certain loan companies may cover this cost. Check with your loan company before beginning your counseling session.  

Do you offer loans?

Do you offer loans?

No. MMI is not a lender. Completing a counseling session does not qualify you for a loan, though it may fulfill certain requirements of a loan program. 
Do you offer down payment assistance?

Do you offer down payment assistance?

MMI as an organization does not offer down payment assistance. However, location-specific financial assistance programs may be available. Consult with your counselor to see if programs are available in your area.
Will this be reported to the IRS?

Will this be reported to the IRS?

We do not report any information to the IRS. Your counseling session is confidential and your participation will not be disclosed to any third party without your permission.
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  • Financial Counseling Association of America Financial Counseling Association of America
    MMI is a proud member of the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA), a national association representing financial counseling companies that provide consumer credit counseling, housing counseling, student loan counseling, bankruptcy counseling, debt management, and various financial education services.
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  • Department of Housing and Urban Development - Equal Housing Opportunity Department of Housing and Urban Development
    MMI is certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide consumer housing counseling. The mission of HUD is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD provides support services directly and through approved, local agencies like MMI.
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    MMI is proudly accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA), an international, independent, nonprofit, human service accrediting organization. COA’s thorough, peer-reviewed accreditation process is designed to ensure that organizations like MMI are providing the highest standard of service and support for clients and employees alike.
  • National Foundation for Credit Counseling National Foundation for Credit Counseling
    MMI is a longstanding member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®), the nation’s largest nonprofit financial counseling organization. Founded in 1951, the NFCC’s mission is to promote financially responsible behavior and help member organizations like MMI deliver the highest-quality financial education and counseling services.