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Starting a Low-income/First-time Home Buyer Community Resource Center

  • 1.  Starting a Low-income/First-time Home Buyer Community Resource Center

    Posted 22 days ago
    Edited by Joshua Matthysse 22 days ago

    Hello everyone,

    I'm a teacher who decided to try out the mortgage industry (started July 2025 as a post closer), but it seems my educational background can't be held back! I see a need for better education and resources in our area (western Michigan) for low-income and first-time home buyers, and was wondering if anyone out there has started a mortgage-related resource center, has worked/volunteered at one, or just has some brilliant ideas. 

    I've started to research, network and organize ideas into a presentation for my boss and other stakeholders, so any advice, commentary, or questions/scenarios to consider are ALL welcomed. 

    If nothing else, perhaps answer this: If I could envision the "perfect" community resource center for home buyers in need, what would it include (or definitely not have)??

    Here are some of my thoughts thus far:

    1. Gather HUD (& other) data to show local stats and need for the center
    2. Continue networking and reaching out to current resource centers
    3. Research and start contacting potential stakeholders, grant possibilities, etc.

    Educational ideas:

           1. Home-ownership class

           2. Program resources class

           3. Cover letter/Resume/Job interviewing classes

           4. GED certification/prep class

           5. English (ESL) classes

    I have an MA in Education and about 15 years of teaching experience--most of that as an ESL professor--so I would really love to use that to push for positive change in this field! I appreciate your time and ideas!!

    Joshua



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    [Joshua] [M]
    [Post Closer/Lock Desk]
    [My City Home Loans]
    [GR] [MI]
    (616) 622-4022
    jmatthysse@mycityhl.com
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