NHSNYC offers accessible, affordable, and tailored education programs and counseling services that enable individuals and families to successfully buy and maintain their homes in New York City.
NHSNYC is a federally certified Community Development Financial Institution, is approved as a Housing Counseling Agency by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and is a chartered member of NeighborWorks® America.
Pre-Purchase Education and Counseling
- One hour introductory informational session answering the key question: Is homeownership right for me and my family? Learn about the homeownership process and how to find and secure affordable mortgages and closing costs.
See calendar events on this page to register.
- 8- to 10-hour online version of our Homeownership Education Course that you can take at your own pace.
Note: Homebuyers who want to qualify for down payment and closing cost assistance from NHSNYC can take this online course instead of attending an in-person course but still need to complete a One-on-One Counseling session.
See calendar events on this page to register.
- 6-hour course covering information that all first-time homebuyers should know in order to make well-informed decisions and become empowered and educated consumers. Topics include credit, effective money management techniques, and the mortgage application and home buying processes. Graduates receive a Homeownership Education Certificate.
Note: Homebuyers who want to qualify for down payment and closing cost assistance from NHSNYC must attend a One-on-One Counseling session and a Homeownership Education Course.
See calendar events on this page to register.
- Personal session with a certified Homeownership Counselor to conduct a credit and budget analysis, an affordability analysis, and to create a tailored action plan for homeownership. Counselors will help you access the most competitive quotes, compare mortgage offers, and apply for downpayment and closing cost assistance. Counselors also provide guidance on affordable refinancing and mortgage modification.
Note: Homebuyers who want to qualify for downpayment and closing cost assistance from NHSNYC must attend a One-on-One Counseling session and a Homeownership Education Course.
- 2-hour webinar for current property owners or first-time home buyers of 2-4 unit properties covering key landlord responsibilities and legal requirements from collecting rent to local and state laws. Graduates receive a Landlord Education Certificate.
Note: This course is required for home buyers applying for a loan from NHSNYC or one of our banking partners to purchase a 2-4 unit property.
See calendar events on this page to register.
Financial Education and Coaching
- 1.5-hour seminar focused on strengthening personal finances including how to increase savings, decrease debt, and earn a higher credit score.
See calendar events on this page to register.
- Personalized coaching session with a certified financial coach to determine personal financial goals and to set an action plan to achieve those goals. Credit report cost included in coaching fee.
HPD HomeFirst Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance Program
Many New Yorkers want to purchase a home but have difficulty saving enough money to make the downpayment. NHSNYC administers the New York City Department of Housing Preservation & Development’s HomeFirst Downpayment Assistance Program which provides qualified homebuyers with up to $100,000 in downpayment and closing costs assistance.
- Up to $100,000 in downpayment or closing costs assistance for qualified first-time homebuyers
- Household income up to 80% Area Median Income
- Must have at least 3% of personal funds towards downpayment
- Eligible properties include 1-4 family homes, condominiums and cooperatives within the five boroughs
- Subject to a 10-year owner-occupancy requirement
Note: Homebuyers must meet program income requirements and must complete a Homeownership Education Seminar as well as a One-on-One Counseling session with a homeownership counselor from a HPD-approved housing agency (such as NHSNYC) to be eligible.
Estate Planning Program
Our Estate Planning Program empowers homeowners, seniors, veterans, and families to take the necessary steps toward building generational stability and avoiding costly legal issues.
Integrated into our Foreclosure Prevention and Financial Education Counseling Programs, our Estate Planning Workshops and one-on-one counseling provide clients with a clearer understanding of:
- Wills and Trusts: How to ensure your property and assets are passed on according to your wishes.
- Power of Attorney: Designating a trusted individual to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf if needed.
- Health Care Proxy and Living Will: Communicating your healthcare preferences in advance.
- Property and Homeownership Protection: Safeguarding against deed theft, probate delays, and family disputes.
- Heirs’ Property Planning: Preserving your home within your family and protecting your legacy.
Our counselors also connect clients to:
- Legal and Financial Resources: Trusted community partners who offer further support and guidance.
For the next webinar, visit our Upcoming Events.
To request one-on-one counseling, complete this form.