Homebuyers Education Workshop
Learn Everything You Need to Know to Buy Your First HomeOur HUD-certified Homebuyer Education Workshop gives you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make informed decisions and qualify for down payment assistance.
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and preparation is key.
Through our workshop, you’ll learn:
- How to qualify for Baltimore City down payment incentives and assistance
- How to find a home that fits your budget
- Real estate and mortgage terms every buyer should know
- How to choose the right mortgage lender
- What to expect during closing and beyond
- How to protect your new investment
Choose the option that fits your schedule
- Saturday Workshop: One six-hour virtual session led by NHS experts
- Thursday Sessions: Two three-hour virtual evening sessions
- Online Self-Paced Course: Learn at your own pace from home
- In-Person: One six-hour in person session
After completion of the Homebuyers Workshop and 1-on-1 Counseling, you’ll earn your Homebuyer Education Certificate, which most down payment assistance programs require.
Ready to Get Started?
Why Choose NHS Baltimore?
✓ HUD-Certified & NeighborWorks-Certified: Our Homebuyer Education Workshop provides the certificate required by many Baltimore City and County down payment assistance programs.
✓ Local Impact: Helping Baltimore residents build wealth through homeownership since 1974.
✓ Personalized Support: Programs designed for your financial journey not a one-size-fits-all approach.
The Homebuyers Education class was very informative. The instructor spoke for us to understand, they were get patient, knowledgeable and made the class engaging so that we gained a clear understanding. I will be recommending this class to everyone I know ! Thank you for all of your assistance.
NHS doesn’t force you to attend their classes. But let me tell you, friend, the information they provide is worth its weight in gold. It’s like finding a treasure chest of knowledge buried in your backyard. Even if you’re not required to participate, do yourself a favor—show up, take notes, and absorb every nugget of wisdom. You’ll thank me later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NHS homebuyer education workshop free?
NHS Baltimore’s virtual and in-person Homebuyer Education Workshops are free to attend. To receive your official Homebuyer Education Certificate, you must complete both the workshop and a one-on-one counseling session. If you prefer to learn on your own schedule, a self-paced online workshop is available for $100.
Do I need a homebuyer education certificate to get down payment assistance in Baltimore?
Yes. Most Baltimore City and Baltimore County down payment assistance programs require a completion certificate from a HUD-approved homebuyer education course and the completion of 1-on-1 counseling.
How long does the Homebuyer Education Certificate last?
Your NHS Homebuyer Education Certificate is valid for 1 year from the date you complete the workshop. If you do not purchase a home within that time frame, you may need to retake the course and 1-on-1 counseling to meet downpayment assistance program requirements.
Does the online self-paced course satisfy the same requirements as the live workshop?
NHS offers both live and self-paced homebuyer education options to meet different learning preferences. Requirements may vary depending on the program you are applying for.
What is the difference between the Saturday workshop, Thursday sessions, and the online course?
All three formats cover the same homebuyer education curriculum and lead to the same Homebuyer Education Certificate.
The Saturday Workshop is completed in one six-hour session. The Thursday Sessions are divided into two three-hour evening classes. The Online Self-Paced Course allows you to complete the material on your own schedule.
Do I need to take this class before getting pre-approved for a mortgage?
You can typically complete homebuyer education and pursue mortgage pre-approval at the same time. However, many DPA programs require a Homebuyer Education Certificate and the completion of 1-on-1 counseling before you can apply for assistance. So, completing the workshop early can help keep your homebuying journey on track.
Your generous support helps NHS of Baltimore empower families on their path to homeownership while strengthening and stabilizing neighborhoods across our city.