A Non-Profit Organization

Making the Homeownership
Dream A Reality

Online Homebuyer Education Course

Register for Online (Valid for Some Programs)

Online Home Buyer Education Courses are acceptable for some but not all down payment assistance, subsidy or other programs that require Pre-Purchase Home Buyer Education. It is up to you to verify that the completion of this course will meet the education requirements for any program you are considering.

If you are using more than one program, online education must be allowed by every program that is involved. If you change or add programs during your home buying process, you may still be required to attend a live, in-person workshop.

To register for one or both of these online courses, read and check the box below.



To learn more about the topics covered in these courses, please review our Homebuyer Education Curriculum.

Programs include Florida Bond and other Down Payment Assistance Programs

Programs include MCC, FL Bond and other Down
Payment Assistance Programs


Register

Register for In Person (Valid for All Programs)

This in-person Course (or Zoom) is offered on the third Saturday of the month in English. (Call for Spanish Sessions). To learn more about the topics covered in these courses, please review our Homebuyer Education Curriculum.

You’re Dreaming Of Your First Home, But Don’t Know Where To Start.

Register For a First Time Homebuyer Workshop

  • Wondering if you can afford a home?

  • Not sure how much home you can afford?

  • Not sure how to get qualified for a home mortgage?

  • Concerned about your credit rating?

  • Afraid a recent bankruptcy will disqualify you from home ownership?

  • Confused about the world of banks, loans, and paperwork?

  • Uncertain about what you need to do before buying a home?

  • Unsure if you have all the right paperwork?

  • Worried about mistakes or past errors on your credit report?

  • Wondering if it would cost more to purchase or rent?

If you’re asking these questions,
Debthelper.com’s First Time Homebuyer Workshop has your answers.

Our First Time Homebuyer Workshop Can:

  • Set you on the path toward home ownership.

  • Offer details and step-by-step guidance on what you need to do today to make that dream home a reality.

  • Provide you with the certification you need to qualify for:

  • Florida Housing’s First Time Homebuyer Programs (FTHB)

  • Down payment assistance programs requesting pre-purchase education from a HUD approved housing counseling agency.

  • Other loan programs offered by lenders, counties, cities,municipalities, federal programs, and state housingfinance agencies.

First Time Homebuyer Workshops are usually held on the third Saturday of every month
with Spanish language workshops held on the second Saturday. To register for an
upcoming workshop, please fill out the form on this page, or call (561) 472-8000.

Our First Time Homebuyer Workshops Provide:

  • An in-person 6-hour course at our West Palm Beach location; with two additional hours of counseling available as necessary.

  • We also offer partnerships with third party providers to bring you an 8-hour online homebuyer education course.

Down Payment Assistance for your Home Purchase

Have you been dreaming of your first home,​​​ but have no idea where to start? Are you wondering if you could even afford a home or get qualified and move in? Are you concerned that your credit is not great ? Do you know what you need to do before buying a home?

Debthelper’s Pre-Purchase Counseling and Home Buyer Education Programs will answer questions that get you on the path to that new home.

Looking for Down Payment Help? Use this eligibility tool to find grants and other financial assistance for your first home purchase:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a homebuyer education class to qualify for down payment assistance in Florida?

In many cases, yes. Most down payment assistance and first-time homebuyer programs require you to complete a certified homebuyer education course before you can move forward. This class isn’t just a requirement—it’s designed to help you avoid costly mistakes, understand your options, and make confident decisions before committing to a home. By completing our course, you’ll receive a certificate that is commonly accepted by many housing assistance programs. Just as important, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what steps to take next—without guessing or relying on sales pressure. If you’re planning to use any type of assistance, starting with the class is often the smartest first move.

Will this homebuyer education course give me the certificate I need for housing programs?

Yes. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a homebuyer education certificate that can be used for many programs that require proof of education. Beyond the certificate itself, we make sure you actually understand what comes next—so you’re not just checking a box, you’re preparing for success. We also help you: Understand which programs you may qualify for; Avoid delays or denials due to missing steps; Feel confident when you move forward. The goal isn’t just certification—it’s helping you move forward the right way.

Can I take the homebuyer class online, or do I need to attend in person?

We offer flexible options (such as via Zoom/Online) to fit your schedule, including online learning. However, some housing programs may require live or interactive participation. That’s why we guide you based on your goals: If you need a certificate for a specific program, we’ll help you choose the right format. If you’re just getting started, online is a great, low-pressure way to learn. Either way, you’ll get the same trusted education and support—without confusion about what counts.

How do I know if I’m financially ready to buy a home?

That’s exactly what this class is designed to help you figure out. Most people don’t need perfection—they need clarity. During the course, we walk you through: What “affordable” really means for your situation. How to evaluate your income, expenses, and savings. What lenders and programs typically look for. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of where you stand today—and what steps (if any) will strengthen your position. Even if you’re not ready yet, you’ll know exactly how to get there.

What credit score do I need before starting the home buying process?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—and that’s where many buyers get stuck. Different programs have different guidelines, and your overall financial picture matters just as much as your score. In our class, we break it down in simple terms: What ranges are commonly considered; How your credit impacts your options; Practical ways to improve your profile if needed. You don’t need perfect credit to start—you just need a plan. We help you build one.

Can I still buy a home if I have past credit issues or a bankruptcy?

In many cases, yes—you may still have options and allowances. A lot of first-time buyers assume they’re disqualified when they’re not. The key is understanding: Timing requirements; How your financial recovery is viewed; What steps can strengthen your eligibility. Our approach is judgment-free and focused on solutions. We help you understand where you stand and what path forward makes the most sense. Many successful homeowners started exactly where you are.

What steps should I take before applying for a homebuyer program or assistance?

Before applying, it’s important to have a clear foundation in place. That’s why education comes first. In the class, we guide you through: Understanding your financial position; Knowing what programs expect; Preparing documentation; Avoiding common mistakes that delay approvals. Taking these steps upfront can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities later.

What documents or information do I need before starting the home buying process?

Most buyers are unsure what’s needed—and that uncertainty can slow everything down. We simplify it for you by outlining the typical documents, such as: Income and employment information; Basic financial statements; Credit history awareness. More importantly, we explain why each piece matters so you’re not just gathering paperwork—you’re preparing with purpose. When you know what to expect, the process becomes much less overwhelming.

How much home can I realistically afford based on my situation?

This is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—questions. Affordability isn’t just about what you can qualify for. It’s about what fits your life comfortably. In the course, we help you: Break down monthly affordability; Factor in real-life expenses (not just estimates); Avoid becoming “house poor”. Our goal is to help you buy a home you can sustain—not just one you can get approved for.

What does a homebuyer education class actually teach me?

Think of it as your roadmap to homeownership. We cover what you need to know before taking the next step, including: The full home buying process from start to finish; Budgeting and financial preparation; Avoiding common first-time buyer mistakes; and so much more. But what really sets it apart is the support—you’re not figuring this out alone. By the end, you’ll feel more confident, informed, and ready to move forward at your own pace.

Still have questions or not sure where to start?

The best next step is simple—join the class, get your certificate, and walk away with a clear plan tailored to your situation.

Start your homebuyer education today and take the first step toward homeownership with confidence.

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