HomeFree USA features financial assistance programs as well as education, referral and counseling services for prospective buyers in the metropolitan Washington area. Membership is required for participation in programs. Members have access to a variety of financial aid packages related to homeownership, including money for downpayments, closing costs and access to special money-saving mortgage programs. HomeFree offers a mortgage plan requiring $500 down and closing cost grants that do not need to be repaid. Also offered to members are assistance with credit, debt, and tax issues, counseling on savings, debt and budgeting, access to a number of mortgage professionals, assistance in applying for a mortgage, classes in smart homeownership, and step-by-step counseling to make sure the member’s financial interests are protected in the home buying process. Contact: HomeFreeUSA, 318 Riggs Road, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20011. Phone: (202) 526-2000 or (800) 289-4632; fax: (202) 526-4072

Visit: www.homefreeusa.org