Building Foundations of Hope: HomeOwner University
HomeOwner University (HOU) is a transformative program designed to guide families on the near Eastside of Indianapolis from renting to full homeownership through the Shepherd Community Center’s Building Foundations of Hope initiative. This program uses a lease-to-own model, leading to the purchase of a quality, affordable home, creating stability for an entire family, and transforming future generations.
HOU extends beyond established housing assistance, including a holistic approach to empower individuals and entire families. It focuses on developing key areas crucial for long-term stability and success as homeowners and engaged community members.
At your graduation from Homeowner University, you will be able to purchase a home with a down payment in hand and at a purchase price below market value.
Do you – or someone you know – want to be a part of this transformational opportunity to own a home? Start by reviewing our FAQs below to see if you qualify and to understand the program’s commitment. If you want to learn more and take the next steps toward HOU, fill out the form here!
– Maintaining a stable rental history
– Living on the near Eastside of Indianapolis
– Consistently employed with stable income
– Committed to coaching, classes, and accountability
– Willing to be personally vulnerable and transparent
– Interested in owning a home
The HOU program is structured to provide consistent support and practical learning through various engaging components. Every HOU participant will commit to the following:
– Attend Weekly Wednesday Night Classes: Core program time featuring two class sessions, a shared family dinner, and provided childcare, creating a supportive learning environment.
– Receive Mentor Support: Each family is paired with a dedicated mentor for monthly one-on-one check-ins, offering personalized guidance and encouragement.
– Engage in Community Life: Regular micro-community events, social gatherings, and service projects foster strong bonds and a sense of belonging among participants.
Shepherd’s HomeOwner University program follows a clear progression to achieve full ownership and ensure that an individual/family will be financially, emotionally, and physically capable of homeownership upon program completion. The program looks like this:
First, participants begin as renters, with an approximate monthly rent of $1,100, while actively engaging in HOU’s educational curriculum, including weekly Wednesday night classes, monthly one-on-one mentor check-ins, community events, service projects, and comprehensive training in financial management, home skills, relational health, and community.
Second, participants continue renting and contribute $150 per month to a dedicated savings account. These funds are held specifically for your future home down payment. All the HOU curriculum, mentoring, classes, and training will continue to progress alongside participants in the program.
Finally, at the conclusion of the program, participants are prepared to purchase a home. These homes are typically valued around $200,000, but are intentionally kept below market value to ensure affordability.
Upon completion of the HomeOwner University program, you will purchase a home through a recommended mortgage lender. These homes are typically valued around $200,000, but are intentionally kept below market value to ensure affordability. During your HOU program, you will have saved enough to have a down payment and have the credit score/history to qualify for a mortgage.
Step 1: Fill out the form below.
Step 2: Attend the next scheduled HOU Introductory Class
Step 3: Meet one-on-one with the HOU Team
Step 4: Complete assessments and questionnaires to start you on your homeownership journey!
Let us know you’re interested in taking the next step, and we’ll be in touch soon!
