In response to ongoing economic impacts of COVID-19, Phoenix-based Take Charge America has made its one-on-one housing counseling services free through the end of October.
“Whether facing eviction, shopping for a home in a tight market or experiencing anxiety about foreclosure or mortgage default, people are experiencing a wide range of struggles related to housing because of the pandemic,” said Jeremy Wine, manager of housing counseling services for Take Charge America. “Everybody’s situation is different, but our counselors will work with individuals to understand their specific housing goals and create a customized action plan to achieve them.”
The HUD-approved, nonprofit credit and housing counseling agency offers three types of housing counseling services:
Pre-Purchase Housing Counseling
For individuals ready to buy a home or exploring their options, pre-purchase counseling will help determine what type of housing suits their needs, discuss budgeting for house-related expenses and the logistics of the home buying process. Session includes:
- Pros and cons of buying a home
- Fair housing guidelines
- Search considerations and housing options
- Affordability, upfront costs and ongoing costs
- Mortgage types and options
- Application process and protecting your investment
Post-Purchase Housing Counseling
For individuals who already own their home, post-purchase counseling can help homeowners develop an action plan to protect their investment and maintain their homeownership goals. Session includes:
- Routine maintenance and repairs
- System maintenance schedule
- Home safety and emergency preparedness
- Home improvement and financing options
- Avoiding foreclosure and default options
Rental Counseling
For individuals getting their own place for the first time or moving to a new location, rental counseling will discuss different types of rentals, what best meets people’s needs, budgeting and the application process. Sessions include:
- Pros and cons of renting
- Fair housing guidelines
- Search considerations and rental unit options
- Affordability, upfront costs and ongoing costs
- Tenant and landlord responsibilities
- The application process and protecting your investment
Take Charge America also offers an online homebuyer education course, which is a requirement when qualifying for down payment assistance. Cost is $100 per individual or couple.
About Take Charge America, Inc.
Founded in 1987, Take Charge America, Inc. is a nonprofit agency offering financial education and counseling services including credit counseling, debt management, student loan counseling, housing counseling and bankruptcy counseling. It has helped nearly 2 million consumers nationwide manage their personal finances and debts.
