Home Buyer Education
🏡 Homebuyer Education & Pre-Purchase Counseling
Thinking about buying a home in Addison, Bennington, or Rutland County? We’re here to help you navigate the process with expert guidance, education, and personalized support.
Your Path to Homeownership Starts Here
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Our Homebuyer Education Course gives you the knowledge and confidence to navigate the process, make informed decisions, and take advantage of special loan programs and financial assistance.
Why Take This Course?
Learn how to budget, improve credit, and secure a mortgage
Understand home inspections, insurance, and closing costs
Gain access to special lender discounts and financial assistance
Receive a certificate of completion—required for many first-time homebuyer loans
Exclusive Lender Discounts for Homebuyer Education Graduates
Many lenders offer financial incentives to homebuyers who complete this course:
EastRise Credit Union – Waives their $495 processing fee
NBT Bank – Offers $250 toward closing costs
PrimeLending – Offers $250 off closing costs for standard USDA loans (not applicable with VHFA)
Northeast Home Loan – Provides a $250 credit for first-time buyers using Home Possible Loans
Bank of Bennington – Offers a $250 appraisal discount (valid for purchases within one year of course completion)
M&T Bank – Gives a $500 discount off closing costs
Course Options: Learn in the Way That Works Best for You
In-Person Homebuyer Class
- Cost: $99
- Duration: 8 hours
- Find Dates, Locations & Times: 👉 Click here
- How to Register: call us at (802) 438-2303 (Do not create an online account.)
🔹 Ideal if you prefer hands-on learning with direct access to homebuying experts.
Online Homebuyer Course*
- Cost: $99
- Learn at your own pace—anytime, anywhere
- Interactive modules covering every step of homebuying
- Receive your completion certificate upon finishing the course
- Create your free account & register today: 👉 Click here
🔹 Perfect for those with busy schedules who need flexibility.
*Note: Online participants are required to complete a one-hour meeting with a homeownership counselor to receive their certificate.
🎓What You’ll Learn: Homebuyer Education Topics
Your Readiness to Buy – Assessing your financial situation and homeownership goals
Budgeting & Credit – Understanding credit scores and preparing financially
Shopping for a Home – Finding the right property and working with real estate professionals
Getting a Mortgage – Loan options, approval process, and securing financing
Home Inspections & Insurance – Protecting your investment and avoiding surprises
Life After Closing – Homeownership responsibilities and financial planning
Grants, Subsidies & Special Loan Products – Programs that can help make homeownership more affordable
FAQs: What You Need to Know
- The in-person class is [X] hours. The online course can be completed at your own pace, typically in [X] hours.
Course Fee: $99 Per Household (In-Person Class Only)
This fee cannot be waived
Covers workbook, informational materials, and a personal credit report (provided during a later appointment)
- Yes! Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that may be required for first-time homebuyer programs.
- Some participants may qualify for reduced or waived fees. Contact us to learn more.
- Anyone interested in buying a home! It’s especially helpful for first-time buyers, but even experienced buyers can benefit.
- You’ll receive a Congratulations email with next steps. If you don’t receive it, contact us at 802-438-2303.
- Submit the requested documents to schedule a free one-on-one counseling session with a HUD Certified Housing Counselor.
Your Housing Counselor will help you
- Create a personalized action plan to reach your homeownership goal
- Determine grant eligibility and affordability
- Review your credit, savings, spending, and income to prepare you for mortgage approval or down payment assistance
Need more help?
Your counselor will schedule as many follow-up appointments as needed to guide you to success!
If the fee is a financial hardship, you may qualify for a waiver. Please reach out to us at 802-438-2303 or info@cornerstonehousingpartners.org to check eligibility.
📌 Important Information
If you do not live or plan to purchase in one of these counties, please contact the appropriate homebuyer counseling agency:
- Champlain Housing Trust (Chittenden, Franklin & Grand Isle Counties)
- Rural Edge (Caledonia, Essex & Orleans Counties)
- Downstreet Housing & Community Development (Lamoille, Orange & Washington Counties)
- Windham & Windsor Housing Trust (Windham & Windsor Counties)
We offer alternatives for individuals with limited English proficiency, mobility challenges, visual or hearing impairments, or other disabilities. Please contact us at 802-438-2303 or info@cornerstonehousingpartners.org for assistance.
If you feel you cannot afford the fee, please contact us to see if you qualify for a waiver.
Take the First Step Toward Homeownership
📞 Questions? Call us at 802-438-2303 or Contact Us
