Whether homebuyers are taking the HomeChoice™ class to fulfill their loan requirements or because they are seeking information about the home buying process, AHFC recommends the class be taken at the beginning, or better yet, before, the lending process begins.

HomeChoice™ class valuable information for homebuyers and will prepare them for the buying and ownership.  For borrowers using the (Interest Rate Reduction for Low-Income Borrowers) program or for those who receive five percent or more of their down payment from gifts, HomeChoice™ is an AHFC loan requirement.

Do not wait until the last minute to have your borrowers take the class, especially if they are outside the Anchorage area where classes are offered on a limited basis.

For a calendar including upcoming classes, visit: www.ahfc.us/classes

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation offers several opportunities to receive elective credits for re-certification. From More Than a Mortgage, Financing a Home and HomeChoice™ classes for real estate professionals to many workshops which educate attendees about indoor air quality, building science basics and other topics relevant for contractors and building professionals, there are numerous options to get professional develop credits.

For a list of classes for professionals, click HERE.

• Check for loose or leaky gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.
• Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled with compacted soil. Spring rain can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage.
• From the ground, examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter.
• Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
• Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete.
• Remove firewood stored near the home. Firewood should be stored at least 18 inches off the ground and at least 2 feet from the structure.
• Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced. While you're at it, check the garden hose for dry rot.

If you have been a first time homebuyer, you know all about what the homebuying process entails. For the 9,162 prospective homebuyers that have taken AHFC's HomeChoice™ class in the last five years, we hope that you were better prepared and knowledgeable to make the best decisions relating to your home buying experience.

Here's what a few of those homebuyers had to say:

“I really appreciate that this class is available and free. It gives a great sense of hope and knowledge to find a house for your family.”               – Fairbanks

“This class answered a lot of questions I didn’t even know I had. It also helped me realize that I may not be using the best lender to meet my needs and I need to be more proactive in the home buying process than I have been.” - Anchorage

“I really appreciate all the effort, time and knowledge that this class and the instructor and guest speakers shared. I do not feel so lost or confused when looking towards home ownership.” – Juneau

“This is the second time I’ve taken the class and found it to be equally as helpful as the first time. Thank you for providing it!” –Ketchikan

To learn more about HomeChoice™, click HERE.