NeighborImpact achieves HUD certification for three housing counselors

New certification requirements released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) stipulate that by August 1, 2020, all housing counseling provided in connection with HUD programs must be provided by HUD Certified Housing Counselors.

Housing counseling agencies nationwide are working to certify their counselors before the August deadline. Nationwide, 64 percent of agencies had no certified counselor on staff as of December 2019. By contrast, NeighborImpact now has three certified counselors, including a newly minted counselor, Eric Pashia, who passed his exam January 8, joining experienced counselor Jeff Belzer. NeighborImpact also has a remote counselor, Victoria Vale, a former employee who relocated to Brookings and now offers remote counseling through NeighborImpact.

NeighborImpact’s HomeSouce program provides financial coaching or counseling, working with homeowners to supplement mortgage payments through loan modifications, forbearances and other workout options. Counselors determine the specifics of all available options with lenders and help to implement them as early as possible. That process involves education, early detection of delinquency, providing financial training and supporting clients’ negotiation with lenders. Counselors consider different households’ cases according to their unique circumstances. Unique scenarios present opportunities for creative solutions to avoid foreclosure or exit with dignity.

“There are many reasons why people may find themselves in an unstable homeownership situation, and being able to identify and work together for a solution it enormously beneficial both to the particular individual, as well as to the community,” said Sonia Capece, NeighborImpact HomeSource Director.

With three HUD certified counselors, NeighborImpact’s capacity to provide these services is unmatched regionally.

For more information or to fill out an intake form, please visit https://www.neighborimpact.org/homeowner-help/foreclosure-prevention-mediation/

About NeighborImpact: Since 1985, NeighborImpact has been a leader in developing solutions and bringing resources to Crook, Jefferson, Deschutes County and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. The agency offers a diversity of services meeting basic human needs for food and shelter, while enriching people’s lives by providing access to increased education, skills, and hope for the future. NeighborImpact is a private nonprofit organization that receives federal, state and local grants, foundation grants and donations from individuals and businesses in our community. To learn more about NeighborImpact please visit www.neighborimpact.org. 
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