Financial Steps Toward Homeownership: Get Money & Credit Ready for 2026

This in-person workshop, “Financial Steps Toward Homeownership,” will break down the numbers, the credit requirements, and the *real-life steps* you need to take to move from renter to homeowner.

You’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a simple game plan you can start on immediately.

What You’ll Learn

In this session, we’ll cover:

How much you actually need to buy (down payment, closing costs, inspections & more)
* **Credit 101 for homebuyers:** what scores lenders look for and how to improve yours
* **Debt & DTI (debt-to-income):** how your current bills affect your approval
* **Saving strategies** for down payment & reserves while still living your life
* **Down payment assistance & grant programs** (including IHDA and other options)
* **Common money mistakes** buyers make before closing (and how to avoid them)
* **Your 30-60-90 day plan** to move closer to homeownership

Who This Is For

This workshop is perfect if you are:

* Renting and want to stop “throwing money away”
* A first-time buyer who doesn’t know where to start
* Someone who had credit challenges in the past and wants a comeback plan
* A future investor who wants to understand the financial foundation first

What to Bring

* A notebook & pen
* Your questions
* Your partner, friend, or accountability buddy (they should register too!)

About the Host

**Rodessa Joiner**
Illinois & Indiana REALTOR® | Realty Services Consortium

For over 20 years, Rodessa has helped buyers, sellers, and investors build wealth and create a legacy through real estate. She specializes in first-time buyers, down payment assistance programs, and guiding clients step-by-step from “just thinking about it” to **keys in hand.**

FAQs

**Is there a cost to attend?**
No. This event is **FREE**, but registration is required due to limited seating.

**Will there be a sales pitch?**
This workshop is educational. You’ll have the option to connect with professionals for next steps, but there is **no pressure**.

**Can I bring someone with me?**
Absolutely! Just make sure each person is registered so we can reserve seating.

**Will there be parking?**
street parking

**What if my credit is not where it should be?**
Come anyway! This event is **exactly** for you. We’ll talk about realistic strategies to get your credit and finances ready.

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**Reserve your seat today – your future homeowner self will thank you!**

Also check out other Workshops in Chicago.