Services provided by the Financial Development Services Team:
- Homebuyer Education
- One-on-One Pre- and Post- Purchase Counseling
- HECM/Reverse Mortgage Counseling
- Default Management and Foreclosure Prevention
Homebuyer Education
CEI’s homebuyer education program is certified and compliant with Maine hoMEworks to provide comprehensive, 8-hour programs throughout the state. Participating in home buyer education results in lower delinquency and foreclosure rates as new homeowners feel better prepared and equipped to take on this new and exciting chapter in their lives! In-person classes are CEI’s preferred method of delivering homebuyer education, but in Maine it can be challenging for some participants to attend classes in person. As a result of the current pandemic, CEI’s educational offerings are currently being offered in a live webinar format.
CEI has partnered with eHomeAmerica to offer comprehensive, Maine hoMeworks approved homebuyer education online that is self-paced and convenience It is the nation’s premier online homebuyer education program.
One-on-One Pre- and Post- Purchase Counseling
CEI offers individual pre and post purchase counseling. Offering prospective buyers, a chance to meet with a HUD-certified counselor to discuss in detail their situation, challenges, and goals in embarking on the home buying process. This counseling can be done in person, virtually or over the phone completely free of charge. Also, similar in structure to pre-purchase counseling, this free service gives new homebuyers additional opportunity to review their closing documents, and guidance as they transition into homeownership.
HECM/Reverse Mortgage Counseling
CEI is the only counseling agency in Maine offering Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) counseling. Homeowners aged 62 and older, who own their own home as their primary residence, may be qualified to access existing equity in their home. CEI is proud to offer the required comprehensive counseling session by a HUD-certified HECM counselor at no cost. This 90-minute session can be completed virtually, face-to-face or via telephone.
Default Management and Foreclosure Prevention
Many households continue to face economic hardship. If you are having difficulty paying your mortgage, are in foreclosure or fear that you may be soon, CEI can help. Our HUD certified counselors can assist homeowners at any stage of mortgage delinquency or foreclosure in Maine at no cost. Many homeowners have already tried to work with their lenders and frustrated by that experience. Don’t give up! The bank does not want your home; there may be options for homeowners, but the process of default and foreclosure is often a scary and confusing one.