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Buying a home is one of the best ways to build generational wealth for your family and add to your own net worth. But whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned veteran, the homebuying process can be intimidating.
Southern Bancorp’s HUD-certified housing counselors can help you at every step, from getting your credit straight and your paperwork in order to understanding the mortgage process.
Our counselors can help you with:
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Money management
- Understanding Credit
- Shopping for a Home
- Getting a Mortgage Loan
- Keeping your Home
- Managing Finances
Learn More About Homeownership
Learn More About Home Ownership
Prequalification vs. Pre-approval: What’s the Difference?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Searching for your dream home doesn’t have to remain just a dream. Knowing in advance how much money you have available to purchase a home can go a long way in turning that dream into reality. One...
Homeownership Affordability: Know Your Numbers
By Charlestien Harris One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a home is affordability. Affordability can look different for each person considering homeownership. Homeownership affordability is defined as the ability to purchase and maintain a...
Homebuyer Education: What Is It, and Why Do I Need It?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp Now that you’ve decided you’re ready to purchase a home, it’s time to learn more about the home buying process. A Homebuyer Education Course is designed to educate potential buyers about the steps...
Are You Ready to Buy a Home?
By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Counselor at Southern Bancorp June is commonly known as National Homeownership Month – a time to celebrate the American dream of owning a home and to promote the benefits of homeownership. National Homeownership Week began in...
Budget-Friendly Home Maintenance Projects in May
By Charlestien Harris May is a great time to find deep discounts on materials for home maintenance or home improvement projects you plan to tackle this summer. I know that June is when we will celebrate National Homeownership Month, but having a plan can help reduce...
What is a Zombie Mortgage?
By Charlestien Harris I know it's a little early in the year to talk about zombies, but “they” are a very serious issue that have recently been creeping up on unsuspecting homeowners. First, let me give you a clear definition of what a "zombie" mortgage is. Zombie...
Common Terms Used in the Homebuying Process
By: Charlestien Harris We have reached the end of June, and throughout this National Homeownership Month, we have provided you with insightful information regarding various aspects of the housing industry and the home-buying process. My hope is that you have acquired...
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Home
Taking a few extra steps to help you better prepare for homeownership can save you time and money.
First-Time Homebuyer Assistance: What is it and How Does it Work?
By: Charlestien Harris If you are a first-time homebuyer, you likely have several questions regarding the home-buying process. Let's start by defining what qualifies as a first-time homebuyer. Generally, this term refers to an individual purchasing their first...