Take-aways from the 2013 Homeownership Summit

In a previous post I shared that I attended the 2013 Homeownership Summit in Lawrenceville, GA which was free to the public. Even as an agent, I found the information shared very informative. If you were unable to attend, here are my take-aways. *I encourage you to attend opportunities like this to educate yourself on important life matters.

 
CREDIT / BUDGET / BUYING HELP
There are several organizations that will help you get in a position to buy. Most are free or at little cost. 

CREDIT REPAIR
Be very wary of any company promising to repair your credit. The only person that can truly repair your credit is YOU!  Companies may be able to direct you on what to do or negotiate with your creditors but they can't guarantee anything.  

CREDIT REPORT / SCORES
You should be reviewing this at least annually. You can access your credit report from each bureau free once a year (technically you can view it 3 times a year if you do one at a time). The frequency may be more depending on where you live. In Georgia, it is 2 times a year.

Viewing your Credit Score is not free.  

DOWN-PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Aside from the standard Georgia Dream, there are also programs for Protectors, Educators and Health Care Workers (PEN) and Families with members who are disabled (CHOICE).

HUD
HUD Listings- Access to listings is always free. Don't ever pay a company or site to view  them! 

The $100 down program is still available.

LOANS
There are several types of loan programs available. Some are dependent on you and others on the geographics of where you want to live. Speak to different lenders to see which makes the most sense for your situation.

MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE
The HomeSafe Georgia program provides Mortgage Assistance. If you meet their qualifications they will loan you money to catch up on your mortgage. After 5 years of occupancy, the loan is forgiven. View their site for details. This is a statewide program and they have $$$ available.

MORTGAGE TROUBLE
At the first sign of mortgage trouble, take action! Do not wait until you get a foreclosure notice. Contact your lender immediately. There are also several companies that can assist you with this. There are also several SCAMS! They take your money, make false promises, and do very little if anything besides waste time. By the time you realize that option isn't working, it is too late. 

There may be hope for your situation, but passivity will not result in an effective resolution. It will take consistent action. And remember... no one will be on top of things like you.  If you fax something, verify it has been received and follow-up to make sure things are moving along.

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Do you have a real estate need? 

If you have a real estate need or know someone that does, I can help. Not local? No problem! Call me at (404) 857-2508 to see how I can assist. Don't go it alone! 

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.NatashaKnowsATLHomes.com -  Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube