Nonprofit Housing Counselors
Nonprofit housing counselors are an important resource for consumers. They can provide counseling on debt management, home buying, mortgage delinquency and predatory lending. Beware of companies claiming to be “nonprofit” counseling agencies. If an agency charges a fee, look carefully at what type of services are included. Other things to consider are
- Is the agency accredited by a recognized accreditation organization such as the National Association for Credit Counseling?
- How long has it been in business?
- Does it have audited financial statements?
- Does it have community presence? In other words, does it have branches that are open to the public?
- Does it have the required licenses to do business in Maryland?
Housing counseling service providers approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development are free. If you need the service of a free housing counselor, consult this list of nonprofit housing counselors approved by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development also offers a comprehensive list of Maryland housing counselors on its website.
To find housing counselors who are qualified to give advice for loss mitigation or foreclosures, click HERE.
Another comprehensive resource is to contact “the Network”, the Maryland Housing Counselor Network.