First-Time Homeownership Programs and Support

Homeownership Support for Every Stage of the Journey

Buying or keeping a home in New York City can feel impossible when prices are high, rules are confusing, and your finances feel stretched. Many people in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island aren’t sure where to start—whether they’re dreaming about their first home or worried about falling behind on a mortgage they already have. As a HUD-Certified Housing Counseling Agency, MHANY provides first-time homebuyer education, one-on-one counseling, foreclosure prevention assistance, and financial workshops that turn confusion into a clear plan. 

First Time Home Buyer Workshops

Buying your first home is a big step—one that’s easier, safer, and more achievable when you have the right guidance. MHANY’s First-Time Homebuyer Workshop is offered either via Zoom or in person at our office, and lasts approximately two hours. Every prospective buyer must attend this workshop/seminar as part of their homeownership journey.

After completing the workshop and a minimum of 8 hours of one-on-one counseling with a HUD-certified MHANY counselor, participants become eligible for a HUD Counseling Certificate—a credential recognized by lenders and required for many down-payment assistance programs.

What the Workshop Covers:

  • The full step-by-step process of buying a home
  • Key questions to determine whether you’re financially and personally ready for ownership
  • Mortgage payments vs. rent: how they compare, and the pros/cons of each
  • What banks look for when evaluating loan applicants
  • Overview of down payment assistance options for eligible buyers
  • How MHANY determines your unique affordability based on income, savings, and credit
  • The pros and cons of different home types, including condos and co-ops
  • Understanding condo/co-op formation, governance, common charges, and ownership responsibilities
  • What to look for in a third-party engineer inspection report—and why it’s essential
  • Terminology and concepts you’ll hear throughout the homebuying process
  • Post-closing guidance: what to expect as a homeowner, budgeting for ongoing costs, being a landlord, and maintaining your property

all services

Available Properties
Bathroom with gray tile, white tub, vanity, black fixtures, and a mirror.

What to Expect When You Work With MHANY

Buying or keeping a home is a big commitment—but the process becomes much less intimidating when you know the steps. Our goal is to replace panic and guesswork with a clear roadmap tailored to your situation

How to get started

  1. Start With an Intake Conversation
  2. Review Your Finances and Credit
  3. Create a Personalized Action Plan
  4. Connect With Programs and Resources
  5. Stay Supported Through Each Milestone

Your Homeownership Questions, Answered

  • Can I really buy a home in NYC with a low or moderate income?

    Yes—many of our clients are working-class New Yorkers who never thought homeownership was possible. With counseling, improved credit, realistic expectations, and access to grants and affordable mortgage products, it can be within reach.

  • Do I need good credit before I meet with a counselor?

    No. In fact, many people come to us because their credit needs work. We’ll help you understand your credit report and create a plan to improve it over time.

  • Is your counseling free?

    Most HUD-approved counseling services are free or low-cost. We’ll explain any fees up front before you commit, and we never push products or loans—we’re a nonprofit, not a lender.

  • What if I’m already a homeowner and behind on my mortgage?

    Contact us as soon as possible. The earlier you reach out, the more options we typically have—like modifications, repayment plans, or referrals to legal assistance.