PORTLAND — Buying a home is exciting, but not easy, and first-time buyers face a particularly complicated journey that can lead to avoidable mistakes and unnecessary stress. For over 25 years, hoMEworks, a nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer home buyer education in Maine, has been committed to making the road to homeownership a bit smoother for thousands of individuals and families.
In recognition of the importance of programs that provide education on these topics, Norway Savings Bank has committed $2,500 to serve as a Gold Sponsor of the program.
“hoMEworks creates more confident home buyers who, in turn, can make better, informed decisions throughout the process. Participants receive the tools and guidance to select and secure a home that meets their individual and familial needs and matches their financial resources,” Darci Hamm, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Norway Savings Bank as well as a member of the hoMEworks Board of Directors, said.
The eight-hour class features segments on 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.
“The instructor was extremely knowledgeable and was able to provide clear instruction of the material. She also was able to provide real life examples which made it easier to understand,” one student said. “She was also open to any and all questions and made it a safe and fun place to learn!”
The classes are open to anyone interested in learning, not just first-time buyers, and those who complete the class also receive a certificate that satisfies the education requirement for many mortgage programs.
“The program provides education and assistance, of course, but also hope to those questioning their readiness for home ownership,” Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank, said. “hoMEworks has made a real difference since 1998, and we’re proud to support its efforts and continuing impact.”
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.
