Regional Home Ownership Center & Housing Counseling Agency

Piedmont Housing Alliance is a US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified Housing Counseling Agency. We provide individual and families with Pre and Post purchase education using the VHDA Homebuyer Education curriculum. Through homebuyer's education, each person learns how to manage their income, consolidate debts, save money toward the downpayment, and apply for a mortgage. All of our Counselors are certified Housing Counselors and offer one-on-one confidential counseling sessions. We offer default/foreclosure counseling, HECM/Reverse Mortgage Counseling, VIDA-program counseling to save towards the purchase of a home, education or to start a business.

Financial Literacy Education and Outreach

We offer instructor led adult and teen financial literacy workshops to individuals and families who will learn how to manage their income, consolidate debts, credit repair, increasing credit scores, learn how to save money for downpayment using the Money Smart and Credit Smart curriculums. All classes are FREE. Preregistration is required.

Making Your Dream Possible

It’s natural to want to own your own home. It’s also smart. Buying a home is one of the most important steps you can take toward building security and accumulating wealth. It’s part of the American dream. But in recent years, housing costs in Charlottesville and the surrounding area have skyrocketed. Such increases have affected everyone, especially those who want to buy a home but now cannot afford to do so. Even though you save and do your best, owning your own home may seem more like the impossible dream. Now, there’s good news.

Who We Are

The Regional Home Ownership Center has been established by a regional nonprofit and other community partners who support local citizens like you in their pursuit of the American dream. By supplying expanded homebuyer education services and creative financial products, we can assist more families buy homes.

Through this unique public/private partnership, you may also be eligible to receive assistance with covering your down payment and closing costs and with obtaining a below-market rate mortgage. Since buying a home can be a complicated process, our certified, trained staff work with you every step of the way. We help you review your current financial status, credit history, monthly budget, and debt structure. Then, we develop a customized home purchase strategy and timeline based on your individual needs.

Take the First Step

Whether you’re a first-time home-buyer or you have purchased before, the Regional Home Ownership Center has a full range of resources to help you achieve your dream of owning a home. The first step begins with you. Please call us, and we can begin assisting you right away. Call: (434) 817-1639 x107.

Frequently Asked Questions

 What do I need to know about my credit history?
Typially, to get a competitive mortgage in today’s market, your credit score should be 620 or higher.

 How much home can I afford?

The amount of home you can afford is generally based on the amount of mortgage loan you can comfortably support. Generally, the amount of mortgage you qualify for is based on four factors: 1) Your monthly payments as a percentage of your income; 2) How much cash you have for the down payment and closing costs; 3) your credit history; and 4) current interest rates.

 What types of mortgages are available?
We measure our success through your success. That’s why we work with you to provide a variety of home-buying options. Depending on your budget and financial goals, we can provide access to reduced rate mortgages and other flexible programs.

 Should I get pre-qualified for a mortgage before I shop for a home or will you refer me to a Realtor?
Yes, mortgage pre-qualification makes sense. It can give you additional leverage with a seller in negotiating the best possible terms of the sale. It can also save you time and energy, making your home-buying experience easier and less stressful. Please call one of our certified housing counselors to discuss how we can help you with mortgage pre-qualification. Are you looking for a Realtor? Check out the CAAR "Affordable Housing Advisors", they are knowledgeable about the Piedmont Housing Alliance first time homebuyer programs. click here:
http://www.caar.com/buyersandsellers/affordablehousingadvisors

 What are the costs and fees associated with buying a home?
The cost of buying a home includes the sale price as well as closing costs and third-party fees. These costs may include appraisal, credit report, title, and flood certifications. To calculate how much you will pay for closing and other additional costs, a good rule of thumb is to add 3-6% of the sale price. After receiving your application, we will provide you with a precise estimate of your closing costs.

 How much do I pay RHOC?
At Regional Home Ownership Center, there is no fee for our housing consultation services. Once your mortgage is approved, certain origination fees may apply.

Partners and Supporters

-CAAR, Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors

-Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce

-Blue Ridge Home Builders Association

For more infomation about the Regional Home Ownership Center (RHOC) call 434-817-2436