Next Steps

Once you have determined that you may be eligible for a SoftSecond Loan, you can begin to take the next steps toward owning your first home. The most important steps are:

1. Take a first- time homebuyer class: Borrowers must complete a homebuyer education class that has been approved by Massachusetts Homeownership Collaborative. Visit the CHAPA web site for a list of classes. Class times, locations, and cost vary depending on the agency providing the class.
2. Contact a participating lender: We encourage prospective homebuyers to contact a few of our participating lenders to compare SoftSecond interest rates. The lender will apply on your behalf to the SoftSecond Loan Program and they are responsible for addressing any questions or concerns regarding your application. Borrowers purchasing a home in the City of Boston will need to have their income certified by the Massachusetts Affordable Housing Alliance (MAHA). Please contact MAHA at 617-265-8995 to arrange an appointment to have your income certified.
3. Complete a post-purchase class: Once the loan has closed, you have one year to complete a post-purchase class. Please visit our HomeSafe Education page for more information. As a SoftSecond homeowner you are also entitled to post-purchase homeownership counseling at no cost through the HomeSafe program.
4. Buying a multifamily property? Borrowers purchasing a three-family property are required to participate in one-on-one counseling with an MHP-approved agency prior to closing. The goal of the counseling is twofold: borrowers will have an opportunity to assess the affordability of the home they are buying and will learn more about the property itself. Remember to bring all the documents listed on the multifamily checklist to your counseling appointment. Click here for a complete list of MHP approved counseling providers.

For more information, email SoftSecond or call 1-800-752-7131.