Homebuyer Education Classes / Pre-Purchase Counseling
ZION is now offering housing counseling services. This is a new service as of the summer of 2026. We will be adding to these services as our capacity grows in this area. Currently we are offering Homebuyer Education classes and pre-purchase counseling. We will eventually offer foreclosure prevention counseling and post-purchase education classes. Our NCHEC-certified housing counselor is able to guide you through the home buying process, assist you with improving your credit and budgeting, and help you determine the best options for mortgage and down payment programs. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please dial 815-964-8280, ext. 3.
Homebuyer Education Classes
If you are a first-time homebuyer, you can register for our class on July 20th. This is a comprehensive class that walks through the process of purchasing a home. The $75 cost includes a class manual and lunch. ZION utilizes the Realizing the American Dream curriculum by NeighborWorks America. This curriculum is endorsed by the National Association of Realtors, Freddie Mac, and the American Bankers Association. A certificate of completion will be issued that satisfies the requirements of many down payment assistance programs, including Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) down payment and mortgage options.
2026 Homebuyer Class Schedule (click the link to register)
If you believe that you are a victim of Fair Housing Discrimination, you can visit the Illinois Department of Human Rights to file a complaint with the State of Illinois or the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to file a complaint with the Federal Government.