Pre-Purchase & HOEPA Counseling

Before you buy a home, it’s important to understand what you’re committing to. Our pre-purchase counseling services help you learn about the responsibilities and benefits of homeownership. Understand the costs, risks, and responsibilities of homeownership.
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What is HOEPA?

If you're exploring home financing options, HOEPA is designed to protect you from unfair lending practices on high-cost loans. HOEPA, part of the Truth in Lending Act, protects homeowners from predatory lending on high-cost mortgages by enforcing strict rules and transparency. It ensures you're informed, supported, and in control every step of the way through the following benefits:

• Clear, upfront disclosures about loan costs
• Limits on risky loan terms that could hurt you
• Free, required counseling to guide your decision
• Strong legal protections if your rights are violated

With HOEPA, you gain peace of mind and the tools to make confident, safe homeownership choices.

What You'll Learn During HOEPA Counseling

Understand Your Mortgage Options

Learn how the mortgage system works, from pre-qualification to approval. Know which loans fit your financial profile so you can make informed decisions.

Explore Loan
Types and Risks

From fixed rates to government-backed loans, we’ll help you understand what fits your situation and how to avoid any surprises down the road.

Protect Yourself from Predatory Lending

Know the red flags. We’ll teach you how to spot unfair terms, hidden fees, and misleading practices that could hurt your financial future.

Step-by-Step
HOEPA Counseling Process

Step 1:

Speak with a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor

We’ll explain what HOEPA is and how it affects high-cost loans. You'll learn the HOEPA meaning, how it protects you, and whether your loan qualifies under HOEPA regulation requirements.
Step 2:

Review Your Finances and Mortgage Eligibility

Your counselor will help assess your income, credit, and debt-to-income ratio. You’ll learn how to improve your financial health and boost your chances of securing an affordable mortgage.
Step 3:

Understand Loan Options and Avoid Risky Offers

We’ll explain the loan types available, especially high-cost HOEPA loans, and teach you how to recognize risky terms, avoid predatory lenders, and make smart borrowing decisions.
Step 4:

Receive Your Completion Certificate and Next Steps

After your session, you’ll receive a completion certificate required for your HOEPA loan. We’ll also give you next steps, resources, and tools to move forward with confidence.

Take the Next Step Toward Confident Homeownership

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Understand If Your Loan Falls Under HOEPA

Confused about whether your loan is HOEPA-covered? You're not the only one. We'll break it down in simple terms, so you know exactly where you stand and what’s needed to stay protected.

Know Your Options,
‍Avoid Costly Mistakes

We'll help you understand your loan terms, compare options, and avoid common pitfalls. Together, we’ll build a plan that protects your finances and aligns with your long-term goals.
HOEPA & Pre-P… (2)-min

Get Certified,
‍Feel Empowered to Move Forward

Once you’ve completed your HOEPA counseling, we’ll issue your certificate and provide next steps tailored to you.
No stress. Just knowledge, support, and the peace of mind you’ve earned.
service ecosystem-min

Free HOEPA
Resources & Tools

Download these trusted resources to better understand HOEPA loan requirements, stay compliant, and take the next step toward confident, mortgage-ready homeownership. Click the links below.

• HOEPA Lender Reference Guide
‍• Borrower Checklist
‍• CFPB Compliance Guide
‍• Mortgage Readiness Calculator

HOEPA Counseling FAQ's

How do I know if my loan is a HOEPA loan?

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We’ll review your loan terms with you. If it meets HOEPA’s high-cost triggers, counseling is required. You’ll get clarity before you move forward.

Why is counseling required for HOEPA loans?

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HOEPA loans come with higher costs and risks. Counseling ensures you fully understand your rights, protections, and the impact of your loan terms before signing.

Is counseling only for people ready to buy now?

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Not at all. Many people use this session to prepare for the future. We’ll help you create a plan so you’re mortgage-ready when the time is right.

What if I’m not ready to buy after my session?

*Hover over for answer
That’s okay. You’ll leave with personalized steps, credit guidance, and budgeting tools to help you prepare confidently for homeownership when you’re ready.
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