A local agency is teaming up with banks to strengthen home ownership rates in the Tri-State area. NECAC got together with Pike County bankers Wednesday, and hopes to schedule additional meetings around the region.

The agency is asking banks to contribute $2,000 each to cover costs. In exchange, NECAC will provide comprehensive training and work directly with banks in making sure more people are prepared for homeownership and avoid defaults.   NECAC points out that a home purchase is one of the biggest expenses many people will ever have, but it’s the one they often know the least about. NECAC offers homeownership classes that can prepare participants on subjects such as financing, obstacles to homeownership, record-keeping, understanding credit, cash flow, getting a loan, taxes and other topics.

The goal is to sign up 50 banks. The first to get on board is the Mercantile Bank of Palmyra. More information is available by calling NECAC at 573-324-6622.