The Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority (VIHFA) has unveiled its 2026 schedule for the virtual Home Buyer Education Program (HBEP), a series created to empower prospective buyers through comprehensive, accessible instruction. The upcoming virtual classes are designed for residents across the territory to participate from the comfort of their homes.
The program is ideal for a wide range of participants, from first-time buyers and former homeowners re-entering the market to renters considering a future purchase. It’s also a critical step for those seeking down payment assistance through programs like FHA, USDA, or VA financing. “The HBEP is an instructional guide for first-time homebuyers to learn about the entire purchase process step by step,” explained Freida Webster, director of homeownership at VIHFA.
The comprehensive seven-week course, held via Zoom from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., covers everything from financial readiness and credit repair to securing a mortgage, shopping for a home, and protecting your investment. Each session features guest speakers from the lending, real estate, legal, and insurance communities.
A key component of the program is that while it is based on a national curriculum, the material is carefully tailored to reflect Virgin Islands- specific requirements, guidelines, and laws, as well as addressing unique opportunities and challenges of the local housing market. The virtual format, launched during the pandemic and continued due to high demand, has proven to be a major benefit. “Attendees are more relaxed and engaged, making it easier for those with busy schedules or on other islands to participate fully,” said Webster.
VIHFA aims to build confidence that lasts long after the final class. One of the most common misconceptions the program addresses is that imperfect credit or limited savings is an insurmountable barrier. “The lack of clean credit and insufficient downpayment resources is not always a detriment to achieving homeownership,” said Webster.
Participants who are deemed not yet “mortgage-ready” gain access to one-on-one counseling with HUD- certified housing counselors who provide guidance on improving credit, resolving employment issues, and creating an actionable plan. The support network doesn’t end at graduation. Counselors and Homeownership Division staff remain available to answer questions throughout a participant’s journey, ensuring they have ongoing guidance.
For those overwhelmed, VIHFA offers a simple first step: visit www.vihfa.gov, navigate to the programs and services tab, and complete the homeownership application, which includes registration for the HBEP. This starts the pre-qualification process and lays out a clear path forward.
“This program is an investment in your future. If homeownership has ever crossed your mind, this program is a safe, supportive, and empowering place to begin the journey,” said Webster.
Upcoming 2026 Virtual HBEP Sessions:
March 5-April 16 (Thursdays)
July 8- Aug. 19 (Wednesdays)
Sept. 10- Oct. 22 (Thursdays)
For more information or to inquire about registration, contact the VIHFA St. Thomas office at (340) 777-4432 or the St. Croix office at (340) 772-4432.
