What is HUD housing counseling?

HUD housing counseling is free or low-cost education and personalized guidance provided by HUD-approved organizations to help homebuyers understand the mortgage process, improve their credit, build a budget, and prepare for successful homeownership.

What is Fannie Mae HomeReady?

HomeReady is a Fannie Mae mortgage program for low- to moderate-income buyers offering down payments as low as 3%, reduced PMI requirements, and flexible credit guidelines. Borrowers must complete an approved homebuyer education course such as Fannie Mae's free HomeView program.

Is Fannie Mae's HomeView course free?

Yes. Fannie Mae's HomeView is a free online homebuyer education course available at homeview.fanniemae.com. Completing the course is required for HomeReady borrowers and is open to any first-time homebuyer.

How do I find a HUD-approved housing counselor?

You can search for HUD-approved housing counselors near you using HUD's online directory at hud.gov/findacounselor. Counseling sessions are typically free or low-cost and available in person or by phone.

Confident Homebuying Starts With Education

How Fannie Mae’s Housing Counseling Can Help You Succeed

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone — but it can also be one of the most confusing financial steps you’ll ever take. Between pre-approvals, credit scores, down payments, and closing costs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

That’s why Fannie Mae encourages first-time homebuyers to start with housing counseling — professional, one-on-one guidance designed to prepare you for successful, sustainable homeownership.

What Is Housing Counseling?

Housing counseling is education and personalized support provided by HUD-approved organizations that help you understand the entire homebuying process. A certified housing counselor can help you:

Determine how much home you can afford
Improve your credit profile and understand your score
Build a realistic budget for monthly mortgage payments
Compare mortgage options and loan programs
Avoid common mistakes that cause financial stress later

Fannie Mae’s Homebuyer Education Commitment

Through programs such as HomeReady®, Fannie Mae makes education a core part of its mission. HomeReady® borrowers who complete an approved homeownership education course — such as Fannie Mae’s free HomeView™ — may qualify for:

Down payments as low as 3%
Reduced private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirements
Flexible credit guidelines
Access to lender incentives and assistance programs

What to Expect From a Housing Counselor

A counseling session typically includes:

A review of your income, credit, and current debt load
A custom budget and homeownership plan tailored to your situation
Step-by-step guidance through mortgage terms, documents, and closing procedures
Post-purchase support to help you maintain long-term financial success

Get Started Today

Visit HUD’s Housing Counseling Directory to find a certified counselor near you, or complete Fannie Mae’s HomeView™ course for free online. Then connect with your mortgage professional to review financing options that fit your goals.

Use the free calculators here and I’ll review your numbers:

Mortgage Tools & Calculators

Ready for a Real Quote and a Structured Plan?

Once you’ve completed your education course, the next step is a personalized review of your financing options. I’ll walk you through programs, payment scenarios, and down payment strategies — with no pressure and no obligation.

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This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to lend. HomeReady® and HomeView™ are registered trademarks of Fannie Mae. Program eligibility, guidelines, and requirements are subject to change. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Wayne Wallace, NMLS #745186 • Homewood Mortgage, LLC • NMLS #294974.