If you are an attorney interested in volunteering with CEDLP to assist homebuyers, please click here to view an online training video.
What is the Home Ownership Program?
Home ownership offers families stability and security. Since 2002, the CEDLP has been one of the proud partner organizations working with CHAC, Inc., the agency administering the Housing Choice Voucher program, to implement the Choose To Own initiative – a program that permits current Housing Choice Voucher holders to apply their subsidies to mortgage payments for single family homes, condominiums or townhouses in the City of Chicago.
For more information, see http://www.chacinc.com
What agencies work in partnership with CEDLP and the Home Ownership Program?
CHAC, Inc., Chicago Housing Authority, City of Chicago Department of Housing, Federal Home Loan Bank, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Latin United Community Housing Association, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Rogers Park Community Development Corporation, Spanish Coalition for Housing, Citibank, Harris Bank, Marquette Bank, and Countrywide Home Loans.
Who are the clients who participate in the Home Ownership Program?
To qualify for the Home Ownership Program, the head of household must:
- be a participant in the Chicago Housing Choice Voucher Program;
- be in compliance with all of the rules and requirements of the program;
- be a first-time homebuyer;
- earn at least $10,300* annually from employment or business; and
- complete a home ownership counseling program
*Several program exceptions allow seniors and disabled participants to take advantage of the homeownership option.
How can I volunteer to represent the first time home buyers?Simply call or email our office for information about the next attorney training session. After your attendance, you may represent the home buyers.
Can I volunteer even if I have no experience in representing clients in real estate transactions?Yes! You may represent the clients as long as you attend a training session to familiarize you with this kind of work. The
volunteer attorney training sessions are a great way to learn a new practice area.
Can I assist the clients, even if I am not interested in representing them at a real estate closing?Yes! In addition, CEDLP provides attorney speakers and volunteers to work with the clients related to post-purchase issues; such as estate planning, preparation of wills, certain landlord/tenant issues, and property tax concerns.
CEDLP volunteer attorney Joe Miron and his client
several of the Home Ownership Program partners at a real estate closing
satisfied clients of the Home Ownership Program and CEDLP Staff Attorney Angie Hall
*photos take by Angie Hall