Consumer Information

Since 1919, the REALTORS® Association of Lincoln has provided community service programs, advocated for private property rights, organized the local real estate market, educated real estate professionals, and provided market research. Today over 800 local real estate professionals are affiliated with the REALTORS® Association of Lincoln and are held to the highest standards under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.

Homeownership is a safe, secure way to build long-term wealth. Buyers and sellers have different concerns about the local market, but REALTORS® often handle hundreds of real estate transactions over the course of their careers, and can offer guidance and counsel through the buying and selling process. The purchase of a home is one of the biggest financial transactions a consumer will ever make and it is important to consult a REALTOR®.

• Preparing for Homeownership
• 10 Steps to Homeownership

Additional Resources

• The Center for Responsible Lending: Is a nonprofit, non partisan research and policy organization dedicated to protecting homeownership and family wealth by working to eliminate abusive financial practices. The Center for Responsible Lending will give you more information on predatory mortgages lending practices, including the "Seven Signs of Predatory Lending."
   
• Nebraska Real Estate Commission: Consumers are encouraged to read the Consumer Guide to Buying and Selling Homes as preparation for their real estate transaction.
   
• Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA): Provides Nebraskans a broad range of financial resources for homeownership, rental housing, agriculture, manufacturing, medical and community development endeavors.
   
• Fannie Mae: Check out the section on "Buying and Owning a Home."
   
• Ginnie Mae: Has a simple calculator to help home buyers estimate how much you can afford to spend.
   
• HUD Housing Counselors: You can find a list of counseling agencies, by state, approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
   
• "Looking for the Best Mortgage" is a brochure on how to shop, compare, and negotiate the best deal on a home loan. The brochure is a joint effort of 11 federal agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission, the Federal Reserve Board, HUD, and the Department of Justice.
   
• NeighborWorks® Lincoln: is a nonprofit, community-based housing organization dedicated to community revitalization through an active partnership of resident leaders, private businesses and public officials.
   
• REALTOR® Code of Ethics: REALTORS® adhere to a strict Code of Ethics that sets them apart from real estate agents.

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