What to expect when working with a housing counselor

What is a housing counselor?

If you're new to the homebuying process, housing counseling may feel unfamiliar at first. According to Habitat for Humanity, more than a million people across the U.S. rely on housing counselors each year for supportive, educational guidance — an opportunity to ask questions, explore options, and get help tailored to their needs.

Housing counselors are trained professionals who help first-time homebuyers overcome barriers to homeownership, offering assistance and unbiased advice along the way.

You might think of them as financial coaches setting you up for success as a homeowner.

Housing counselors can also help first-time homebuyers identify financial assistance they may be eligible for, including down payment assistance programs like UpPayment®.^*

What to expect in a counseling appointment

To apply for UpPayment, working with a participating HUD-certified housing counselor is required. Once connected, your counselor will schedule time to meet with you and explain next steps. Here's what your first counseling appointment will typically look like:

What to bring with you

Your housing counselor may ask you to bring documents that help them understand your financial picture, such as:

• Income information like pay stubs and W2s for you and your spouse or partner
• Credit card or loan statements to help assess what you can afford
• Recent tax returns and filing status (e.g. single, married filing jointly, etc.)
• Savings information to help determine how much you could put toward a down payment and closing costs

You're also encouraged to bring a list of questions you have about the counseling process, financial assistance, or buying a home in general. Your counselor is there to help any way they can.

Note: Counseling appointments may be virtual or in-person.

What you'll discuss with your counselor

In your first appointment, you'll get to know your counselor and discuss how soon you're looking to buy a home. This is part of a holistic review of your situation and your homeownership goals to see how ready you are to buy a home.

Your counselor may review your finances and complete an affordability analysis to help identify a price range that fits your situation while accounting for ongoing expenses and unexpected costs.

What you'll leave with

After your first appointment, your counselor will typically create an action plan outlining next steps on your path to homeownership.

This plan may include guidance on improving your credit, saving for upfront costs like a down payment, or other actions that'll put you on track to buying a home.

Your counselor may also give you information on financial assistance programs you may be eligible for, including UpPayment. If interested, let your counselor know and they will get your application ready for submission.

How to find a participating housing counselor

You can find a housing counselor by entering your ZIP code on the UpPayment page to connect with an Urban League housing counselor.

Why housing counseling is required for UpPayment

Your housing counselor is there to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for UpPayment, allowing us to assess your needs and provide funds in a timely manner.

Your housing counselor can continue to support you throughout your homebuying journey, even if you aren't eligible for assistance.