The Homebuying Process

Step 1: Can we help you?

Our HomeOwnership Center helps people and families that are purchasing their first home and fall within the income levels listed here.  You are most likely ready for homeownership if your family pays at least $1,000 - $1,200 in rent, can control your other living expenses, is flexible about your housing choices, and has a reasonable credit rating. 

Many families are not yet financially ready for homeownership.  These families benefit from our Financial Fitness Training which helps them take the steps they need to start the homeownership process.  Learn more (link to: communityprograms/classesandtraining/financialfitness)

Step 2: HomeBuyer Education

This 8-hour, HUD certified class for first-time homebuyers qualifies graduates for CHW loans, reduced rates with some lenders, and pre-qualification counseling. Classes are offered several times a month in both English and Spanish across San Diego County.  Learn more -- Class Schedule

You must first complete HomeBuyer education to be eligible for pre-qualification and loan assistance.

Step 3

After you have completed HomeBuyer education, you can call and make an appointment to attend one of our pre-qualification sessions offered every Wednesday in our City Heights Office.  You will meet with one of our staff or bank partners who will review your credit report, income and current situation and let you know what you can afford to purchase.

What to Bring
Make an Appointment

Step 4: First-time HomeBuyer Loans

During your pre-qualification session, you may be told that you are eligible for one or more of Community HousingWorks’ loans.  These loans are added on to your first (primary) mortgage that you receive through the bank to help increase the purchase price you can afford and/or pay for the down payment and closing costs associated with the homebuying process.  Learn more

Step 5: Post-Purchase

This one-on-one counseling happens after you have purchased your home and covers the new responsibilities and opportunities that come with being a homeowner. This counseling covers debt management, budgeting, home repairs, tax benefits, and delinquency / foreclosure prevention.
Contact us to schedule an appointment.