Stage 1:

Initial assessment
and counseling

Client Assessment: Evaluating the client's financial situation, including unsecured debt, debt-to-income ratio (DTI), credit history, and budget management skills.

Credit and Debt Counseling: Providing personalized counseling, budget creation, and a financial action plan.

Stage 2:

Debt reduction
and budgeting

Debt Reduction: Implementing strategies like negotiation, repayment schedules, and debt management.  

Budget Development: Creating a household budget that allows for savings and debt repayment.

Stage 3:

Credit building
and improvement

Credit Improvement Strategies: Guiding clients on improving credit scores through dispute resolution and consistent payments.  

Credit Education: Offering resources to understand credit utilization and the importance of credit inquiries.

Stage 4:

Savings
and financial goals

Savings Plan: Initiating savings for a home down payment and closing costs.  

Financial Goal Setting: Establishing clear goals with a timeline for becoming a homebuyer.

Stage 5:

Continuous monitoring
and follow-up

Ongoing Counseling: Regular follow-up sessions to track progress and address new challenges.  

Milestone Tracking: Monitoring achievements like reaching a target credit score and saving for a down payment.  

Preparation for Homeownership: Preparing for homeownership through education and mortgage options.