What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Associate - Homebuyer Counselor position at Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership?
About the Organization
The Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership (MVHP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting responsible homeownership. Founded in 1986, MVHP has become a leader in homeownership education, offering comprehensive training, counseling, and connecting prospective buyers to down payment assistance and specialty mortgage programs. MVHP has reached over 25,000 families, significantly contributing to sustainable homeownership in the Merrimack Valley region and beyond. We aim to helping families achieve their homeownership dreams while strengthening local communities.
Job Summary
The Program Associate – Homebuyer Counselor will provide comprehensive pre-purchase counseling and conduct homebuyer training seminars. This position plays a vital role in educating and guiding potential homeowners through the complex process of purchasing their first home.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct and facilitate in-person and virtual trainings, including: Homebuyer training classes; Multi-Family/Landlord training classes; Various educational workshops related to homeownership
- Deliver personalized, one-on-one counseling sessions to program graduates, focusing on: Developing comprehensive budgets and analyzing credit reports; Matching clients with suitable mortgage products and programs based on their individual financial situations and needs; Creating tailored action plans to achieve homeownership goals
- Process applications for various agency programs including down payment assistance, lead abatement and local rehab loans
- Support housing lottery agent responsibilities, including evaluating and qualifying applicants for affordable housing opportunities and assisting with open houses as needed
- Maintain accurate and complete client files in compliance with MVHP and HUD guidelines, adhering to confidentiality protocols
- Assist with special projects and additional tasks as assigned
To be successful in this role, you will have the following key competencies:
- HUD Housing Counselor Certification (obtainable within 90 days of employment)
- Strong presentation and facilitation abilities for engaging large groups
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Efficient time management and organizational skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
The ideal candidate will possess or be willing to develop knowledge in:
- Affordable housing programs, homeownership education, and relevant regulations
- Proficiency in Salesforce, Google Docs, mPactPro
- Mortgage lending, Instructing Classes, Fair Housing, Real Estate, Affordable Housing, or related
- Empathy and advocacy experience for underserved communities
- Bilingual competence
Expected Hours of Work
Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm, in-person. Some flexibility for remote work, with supervisory approval. Occasional evenings and weekends for classes, special projects or events, with notice.
Job Type: Full-time, Salary
Pay: $50,000.00 – $65,000.00 per year, commensurate with experience
The Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership (MVHP) is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our organization and enhances our ability to serve our community effectively. MVHP actively seeks to recruit, develop, and retain talented individuals from all backgrounds, valuing the unique perspectives and experiences each person brings to our team. We are dedicated to maintaining an inclusive environment where all employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their best work.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $50,000 - $65,000