PORTLAND – The process of buying a home can be overwhelming and for first-time buyers the uncertain path can lead to poor decisions and oftentimes stops them from even starting the journey.
Since 1998, hoMEworks has been committed to making the road to homeownership a little smoother for thousands of Maine residents.
“It’s a program that is designed for first-time homebuyers as it offers education and empowerment for participants who receive comprehensive information from a network of experienced Maine industry professionals in convenient locations around the state or in an online class,” said Jessica Gurney, outreach and education coordinator for MaineHousing who serves on the hoMEworks Board of Directors. “It really covers every aspect of the home buying process in Maine in a pressure-free, non-sales environment.”
The eight-hour class covers understanding credit, managing finances, associated costs with purchase and ownership, shopping for a home, finding the right real estate agent and lender, mortgage options, special programs for first-time buyers, managing finances after the purchase and more.
Norway Savings Bank has 158 years of experience in helping guide Maine people through the home ownership and mortgage process. In recognition of the importance of programs that provide education on these topics, NSB is proud to offer $2,500 as a Gold Sponsor of the program, a commitment that was honored in a special presentation at the NSB Congress Street branch on June 10.
“Buyers who have taken the home buying class are more confident and make sounder decisions in the purchase process and during homeownership itself. They’re given the tools to select and secure a home that not only meets their needs, but matches their financial resources,” said Darci Hamm, executive vice president and chief operating officer of NSB as well as a member of the hoMEworks Board of Directors. “Classes are open to anyone interested in learning.”
Those who complete the class also receive a certificate that satisfies the education requirement for many mortgage programs.
hoMEworks offers education, assistance, and hope to those questioning their knowledge about and readiness for home ownership.
“As a mutual bank, we’re dedicated first to serving our customers and communities. We are inspired by our mission to contribute value as neighbors and we feel this program is undoubtedly doing so in the many ways in which it serves people in need of guidance,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings. “hoMEworks has had an indelible impact on buyers throughout the state for over 25 years, and we’re glad to offer our support and endorsement in helping to ensure it continues to flourish.”
To learn more about hoMEworks, visit www.mainehomeworks.org. To view a schedule of local and online classes, head to www.mainehomeworks.org/classes. You can also call 207-626-4646.
