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  • ACTS Foundation of California

Free Homebuyer Workshop Series

Learn practical steps to become mortgage-ready — from credit and debt to down payment help and closing day. Open to families across Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kings and Orange Counties.
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Workshops in the 2026 series
0
Cost to attend — always free
$
California counties served
Topics covered end to end
+
  • What You'll Learn

Everything a first-time buyer needs to become mortgage-ready

Each workshop is taught in plain language by community educators, so you leave with steps you can take that same week.

Step-by-Step Guide of the Homebuying Process

Follow the full path from first budget conversation to keys in hand, with no jargon and no pressure.

Step-by-Step Guide of the Homebuying Process

Follow the full path from first budget conversation to keys in hand, with no jargon and no pressure.

Step-by-Step Guide of the Homebuying Process

Follow the full path from first budget conversation to keys in hand, with no jargon and no pressure.

Step-by-Step Guide of the Homebuying Process

Follow the full path from first budget conversation to keys in hand, with no jargon and no pressure.

Step-by-Step Guide of the Homebuying Process

Follow the full path from first budget conversation to keys in hand, with no jargon and no pressure.

Build long-term stability through home ownership!

  • Full Schedule

2026 Homebuyer Workshop Series

Attend one session or all six — each date builds on the last, from credit readiness to competing in today’s housing market.
Session 01

March 28, 2026

Credit, Debt & Getting Mortgage Ready

Understanding credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and practical steps families can take to strengthen their mortgage eligibility.

Topics Covered:
  • How credit scores impact mortgage approval
  • Understanding debt-to-income ratios (DTI)
  • Common credit mistakes to avoid
  • Strategies to improve credit before applying
  • Financial habits that strengthen loan eligibility
Session 02

May 2, 2026

Down Payment Assistance & First-Time Buyer Programs

Overview of CalHFA and local assistance programs, eligibility guidelines, and how first-time buyers can access available resources.
Topics Covered:
  • Overview of California down payment assistance programs
  • CalHFA loan options and requirements
  • Local grants and assistance opportunities
  • Eligibility requirements and income limits
  • How to begin the application process
Session 03

July 25, 2026

Budgeting for Homeownership & Long-Term Affordability

Preparing financially for ownership, including escrow, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and emergency planning.
Topics Covered:
  • True monthly costs of owning a home
  • Property taxes, insurance, and escrow accounts
  • Planning for repairs and maintenance
  • Building emergency savings
  • Avoiding becoming financially stretched
Session 04

August 22, 2026

The Mortgage Process: From Pre-Approval to Closing

Documentation requirements, underwriting timelines, appraisal considerations, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Topics Covered:
  • Pre-approval vs pre-qualification
  • Documents lenders typically require
  • Understanding underwriting and appraisals
  • The escrow timeline and what to expect
  • Common mistakes that delay closings
Session 05

September 27, 2026
1pm -230pm

Building Generational Wealth Through Homeownership

The long-term financial impact of ownership, equity building, refinancing basics, and sustainable wealth strategies.
Topics Covered:
  • How equity builds over time
  • Long-term financial benefits of homeownership
  • Refinancing basics and when it makes sense
  • Protecting your investment
  • Creating financial stability for future generations
Session 06

November 8, 2026
1pm - 230pm

Your Path to Homeownership: Finding the Right Loan & Competing in Today's Market

Featuring a Special Veterans Month Spotlight on VA Home Loans

Explore mortgage options, understand homebuyer assistance programs, and learn strategies for navigating today’s housing market, including a special Veterans Month spotlight on VA home loans.

Topics Covered:

  • Understanding Conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loan options

  • Down payment assistance programs and affordability

  • Preparing financially for homeownership

  • Making competitive offers in today’s housing market

  • Special Veterans Month spotlight: VA loan benefits and eligibility

  • Choosing the right financing option for your homeownership goals

ACTS Free Homebuyer Workshops

We’re excited you’re interested in learning more about the homebuying process.
This short registration will reserve your seat and help us prepare helpful information for attendees.

The workshop is free to attend.

When you submit this form, it will not automatically collect your details like name and email address unless you provide it yourself.