The American dream of homeownership doesn’t have to be a fantasy.

NECAC is taking the edge off of the home-buying experience with a variety of programs.

You can find out what’s available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Pike County Farm Bureau, 1301 E. Washington in Pittsfield. There is no charge and no appointment is needed.

Buying a home is one of the biggest life decisions we’ll make, but it’s often the one we know the least about. NECAC can walk you through the obstacles and roadblocks to put you on the path to your goal.

One option offered by the agency is the 502 Direct Home Loan Program. Applications are being taken now. The 502 loans are used mostly by income-qualifying people to buy homes in rural areas. Families must be able to afford the mortgage payments, including taxes and insurance. Loans are for 33 years, with the interest rate set by the lender. There is no down payment. The loans are another option available.

As part of the program, home ownership classes teach participants about housing opportunities and financing, obstacles to home-ownership, record-keeping, understanding credit, cash flow, meeting with financial institutions, getting a loan, taxes and other topics.

For more information, just show up Thursday or call NECAC at 573-324-6622.