HOMEOWNERSHIP
Preparing families to achieve their dreams.
Whether individuals want to purchase their first home or a new home, our staff is ready to help them understand the homebuying process, ensure that they are financially prepared to buy, and provide a class that may qualify them for down payment assistance.
First-Time Homebuyers Classes
Our HUD-Certified first-time homebuyers classes are held free of charge. This 8-hour course gives potential homebuyers the information needed to purchase a home as well as access to benefits such as lower interest rates, down payment assistance and more.
Classes are held in-person at Catholic Charities of North Louisiana (902 Olive St, Shreveport, LA 71104) from 5:30-7:30 on scheduled dates. To successfully complete the class, you must attend ALL 4 classes.
You may register for upcoming classes using the schedule below. If you require an interpreter or ADA accommodations please let us know.
Due to the length of the classes, no children are allowed.
Our Class Syllabus
- Financial Preparedness: money management, budgeting, first-time homebuyer programs
- Credit: scoring and components, repairing and rebuilding credit, consumer protection, debt management
- Mortgages and Financing: finance options, qualifying, ratios, credit scores, breakdown of closing costs and closing
- Home Buying Process: representation, home search, purchase agreements, negotiating terms, inspections, contingencies, title, preparation for closing
Our Class Schedule
First-Time Homebuyers classes will be held:
- Tuesday, October 13, 2026
- Thursday, October 15, 2026
- Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Thursday, October 22, 2026
Click here to register for October’s First-Time Homebuyers Class.
First-Time Homebuyers classes will be held:
- Tuesday, November 10, 2026
- Thursday, November 12, 2026
- Tuesday, November 17, 2026
- Thursday, November 19, 2026
Click here to register for November’s First-Time Homebuyers Class.
First-Time Homebuyers classes will be held:
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026
- Thursday, December 10, 2026
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026
- Thursday, December 17, 2026
HAPPI Program
The City of Shreveport Department of Community Development’s Homebuyer’s Assistance Program Participation Initiative (HAPPI) is designed to assist first-time homebuyers with purchasing their home. If you meet the requirements, you may be eligible for up to $10,000 in down payment, buy down, and closing cost assistance.
The City of Shreveport and Catholic Charities partner together to ensure that those eligible for the HAPPI program are able to participate and receive assistance to purchase their first home.
Financial Counseling
Our Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) helps hopeful homeowners ensure they are ready to purchase a home. They are professionally trained to assist with building credit, reducing debt, increasing savings, and more. Appointments are free and any adult is eligible.
Loss Mitigation
We can assist individuals and families who are behind on their mortgage and at-risk of losing their home. Counselors will provide guidance on ways to ensure that one is able to remain in their home. Click here to schedule a one-on-one foreclosure prevention counseling meeting.
