What Are Homebuyer Education Programs?

girl on laptop on computer

Buying a home is a significant investment, and it can be intimidating for first-time homebuyers. Homeownership provides stability, security, and pride for you and your family. It is also one of the quickest ways to build equity and accumulate wealth. However, with ever-changing mortgage products and services, homebuying can be daunting, and buyers may feel uncertainty when thinking about the process. 

Attending a homebuyer education program can give individuals the knowledge and confidence to control their purchasing decisions. By following such a program, not only will you overcome fear, but you will also receive guidance on how to become a responsible homeowner. 

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or have purchased homes before, attending a homebuyer education program is essential for successful homeownership. South Dakota Housing is proud to offer homebuyer education programs that can help prepare you for the journey ahead. 


man on computer on couch

In this blog post, we'll explore what homebuyer education programs are, what they entail, and why they are essential for anyone looking to purchase a home. Homebuyer education programs are courses that teach potential homebuyers the ins and outs of buying a home. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including budgeting, credit scores, the mortgage process, downpayments, home inspections, and closing costs. 

The courses are designed to help potential homebuyers make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the homebuying process. Homeownership Education Resource Organization (HERO), an independent, 501(c)(3) organization, provides high-quality, comprehensive homeownership and rental information for South Dakotans. With over 200 homeownership education classes throughout the year, these classes are led by a network of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. 

HERO partners provide classes in a group format, one-on-one or online to potential homeowners. Pre-purchase homebuyer education will provide information on homebuying and financial management, including:

graphic of money images

Personal Money Management

Gain a broader understanding of budgeting and other money management.

clipboard with magnifying glass

Credit History Review

 Learn the importance of your credit report and the impact it has on homeownership.

graphic of flow chart

Financing and the Loan Process

Learn the financing process and available financing alternatives.

graphic of shopping cart and home

Shopping for a Home

Find out how to search and select a home appropriate to your needs.

graphic of home, key and person

Now that I'm a Homeowner

Prepare for the responsibilities of homeownership financially and maintenance of your home.

graphic of robber and home

Predatory Lending

A must for all new homeowners! - Learn how to detect fraudulent or deceptive behavior in the mortgage industry.


View the HERO calendar of events here

Our homebuyer education programs are taught by experienced professionals who are familiar with the homebuying process in South Dakota. They provide valuable insights into the homebuying process and can answer any questions you may have along the way. By completing our program, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls when purchasing a home.

man holding clipboard teaching

Start Learning

Homebuyer education programs are an essential component of the home-buying process. They provide potential homebuyers with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions, navigate the complexities of the home-buying process, and achieve the dream of homeownership. 

At South Dakota Housing, we're committed to helping you achieve your homeownership goals by providing comprehensive homebuyer education programs that prepare you for success. Learn more about our homebuyer education programs and start learning more today.

Previous
Previous

How do Property Developers Make Money?

Next
Next

13 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers