Library: English | What You Need to Know About ‘Alternative’ Mortgage Lenders

Nearly 50 percent of all home loans are made by mortgage lenders that are not banks. Non-bank mortgages offer benefits for many borrowers—if they know which loan terms to look for and which to steer clear of. In addition to highlighting potentially risky loan terms to avoid, this fact sheet explains the consumer protection requirements lenders must meet and offers tips and resources for homebuyers shopping for a mortgage.

Library: English | Buying a Home - Leader’s Guide

The Buying a Home Leaderʼs Guide provides detailed information, written in question-and-answer format, to help teach potential homebuyers how to navigate the often complex process of purchasing a home. The guide covers such topics as how to choose a real estate professional, how to qualify for a mortgage, and what is involved in the settlement (closing) process. It also explains unfamiliar terms and provides tips and suggestions to help the purchase process go more smoothly.

Library: English | You Can Buy a Home - The keys to homeownership (English)

Buying a home is one of the most important purchases you’ll ever make. In this brochure, we cover key topics for potential homeowners, including preparing to buy a home, predicting homeownership costs, finding the right home, shopping for a mortgage and making an offer.

Library: English | Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Fair housing laws protect renters and buyers from discrimination. If you believe you were a victim of housing discrimination, you have the right to file a housing discrimination complaint with HUD. Understanding the complaint and resolution process will help you weigh your options and take action.

Library: English | Saving Your Home from Foreclosure (2011)

Foreclosure is the legal process that your mortgage lender uses to take your home when you fall behind on your mortgage payments. If you are faced with foreclosure, you can work to save your home—or at least limit the financial damage caused by foreclosure—if you understand your options and take the appropriate steps.

Library: English | You Can Buy a Home - PowerPoint Training Slides (English)

This PowerPoint training file is available for download in the “Download File” section.

Library: English | You Can Buy a Home - Seminar Lesson Plan (English)

This PDF packet provides guidance for teachers and team leaders. The 22-page packet contains a detailed curriculum, classroom activities and take home worksheets.

Library: English | Reverse Mortgages: Are They for You?

Older homeowners may be able to borrow against their equity by taking a reverse mortgage. This publication provides an overview of how reverse mortgages work and what you need to look out for when considering a reverse mortgage.

Library: English | True Life Stories

Homeownership is a primary path to achieving financial security, and homeownership helps communities remain stable. This publication, available in Spanish and English in the popular “novella” (comic book) style, addresses some of the key mortgage, lending and financial management issues faced by homeowners.

Library: English | Before You Buy a Home (2006)

Checklist of items for homebuyers who have already found a home they wish to buy. Topics include checking neighborhoods, verifying building permits, using a home inspector, and considering all costs of homeownership.