All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

HomeOwnership Center celebrates 25th Anniversary of offering lending options and financial education

ELKINS, W.Va. — HomeOwnership Center, Inc. (HOC) will be celebrating 25 years of offering home loan products to all income levels and financial education services to eight counties in the Mountain State.

Over the years, the non-profit organization has assisted nearly 1,200 individuals and families in reaching the goal of home ownership and becoming financially stable.

Since its establishment in 1998, HOC has carried on its mission of strengthening the communities of North Central West Virginia by creating and supporting successful homeowners through responsible mortgage lending, credit and financial advising and home buyer education.

“We are tremendously grateful to be a resource and guiding light for folks in the area who may see home ownership as unattainable,” said Kate Somers, HOC’s executive director. “Our staff of mortgage experts are dedicated to our customers in all aspects, whether it’s finding the lending option that fits their finances, repairing credit, teaching budget tricks so financial goals can be met, or just being a listening ear.”

Despite the challenging housing market in recent years, HOC remains a reliable resource by providing pre-purchase assistance to potential homebuyers and provides foreclosure counseling for folks seeking guidance on finances, managing a tight budget and struggling to make mortgage payments.

“We will continue to be here for our communities because we know home ownership builds strong communities and helps create generational wealth within families,” Somers said.

Throughout 2023, HomeOwnership Center, Inc. will use its social media platforms to highlight its history, staff and board members, lending options, homebuying tips, financial education and so much more.

In an effort to respond to the needs of the community, the non-profit group is exploring introducing consumer loans and green/eco-friendly loans for homeowners as well as expanding its work to counties outside of its traditional service area. Be sure to the check the group’s social media pages for updates and announcements.

If you are interested in learning about HOC’s loan products and services, please visit www.hocwv.org or call 304-636-9115.

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