Editor
Does the idea of purchasing a home overwhelm you? Are you worried that you don’t make enough money to afford a home?
If so, you may want to turn to the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership, which offers free homebuyer assessments at its new office, 1414 National Ave. Day, evening and weekend appointments can be scheduled by calling 610-4663.
Established in 1988, INHP (www.inhp.org) is the leading nonprofit homeownership resource in Marion County that’s dedicated to neighborhood revitalization and helping working families and individuals become and remain long-term, successful homeowners.
INHP, a community development financial institution, partners with dozens of local, state and federal government agencies, civic groups, banks, lending institutions and corporations to achieve its mission of serving homeowners and homebuyers with low, moderate and middle incomes.
The organization offers U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-certified pre-purchase homeownership education and financial and mortgage advising as well as a variety of affordable mortgage, refinancing and home improvement loan options.
Want to buy a home?
You think you want to own a home someday, but you’ve got questions. Can I afford it? Will I qualify for a loan? Is now the right time? So why not start with INHP? It will answer all your questions, prepare your finances and choose the right mortgage.
Need emergency home repairs?
INHP offers essential repair loans, which can help you finance major repairs to keep your home safe and habitable. Zero percent interest, no required monthly payment and no out-of-pocket expense means you can finance expensive home repairs with no impact on your already limited budget.
Qualifying repairs may include roof, gutters, plumbing, furnace, water heater, structural, electrical and septic tank.
Applicants must be current on their home mortgage and insurance; property must be owner-occupied and in Marion County; outstanding liens will be reviewed; and licensed contractors need to be used for inspections. Income restrictions apply.
Enroll in a course
INHP offers three classes to help people interested in homeownership to financially prepare, improve credit and navigate the home-buying process:
• The Homebuyer Education course is ideal for first-time homebuyers beginning their search or those who will close soon.
The course covers the basic principles of the mortgage process: credit, shopping for a home, inspections, insurance, and preparing for closing. Learn how to select a real estate agent, what to expect at the closing table and everything in between. The eight-hour course costs $75.
• Dollars & Sense is designed for anyone who manages a household or personal budget and is thinking about buying a home.
The class helps you make the most of your income by teaching the basic principles of money management and budgeting to help you achieve your dream of buying a home. The three-hour course is free.
• Understanding Credit will cover the steps to improve your credit score so that you can qualify for a mortgage. You’ll learn about consumer reporting agencies, the elements of a personal credit report and how credit scores impact your life. Also, learn how to review and read a credit report so you can better understand what’s on yours. The 2.5-hour class is free.
Classes are available online or in a traditional setting.
INPL also has a program called EcoHouse, which provides an easy, economical way to qualify for a loan for energy improvements and save money on energy bills. Plus, they can provide a list of services and qualified contractors to assist you.
INHP has empowered thousands of homeowners to sustain their investment in their residences – ultimately helping to strengthen and encourage the growth of vibrant neighborhoods.