
Building the Framework for Homeownership is a two-hour First-Time Homebuyer Lunch & Learn designed to help future homeowners better understand what it takes to prepare for, finance, and purchase a home. The average age of the first-time homebuyer has gone up to 40 and continues to climb! Lack of understanding and affordability have been the key drivers for this.
In one practical, interactive session, participants will learn how lenders evaluate mortgage readiness, how credit and debt-to-income affect affordability, what financing and down payment options may be available, and what to expect from pre-approval through closing. The class will include an expanded focus on credit, including how credit scores are calculated, how credit can affect mortgage qualification and borrowing costs, and practical steps participants can take to build, protect, or improve their credit.
Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of their own financial readiness, the steps they can begin taking today, and the questions to ask as they prepare for homeownership, whether buying a home is in their immediate plans or still a few years away.
A complimentary lunch will be provided.
USDA loans are a brilliant choice in Missouri because they offer zero down payment and lower mortgage insurance costs across large parts of the state's eligible rural and suburban areas.
JAYSON HARDIE
As CEO and co-owner of Homestead Financial Mortgage, Jayson Hardie has built his
career around trust, accountability, and helping people make confident financial
decisions. He believes every mortgage is personal and that strong communication,
industry knowledge, and practical education are essential to creating a successful
homebuying experience.
A lifelong St. Louis-area resident, Jayson grew up in Dellwood and now lives in St.
Charles. His deep local roots have helped him build a referral-based business grounded
in long-standing relationships throughout the community.
Jayson is also a regular guest on Call the Closer with Lauren Risley, a weekly real
estate program airing on The BIG 550 KTRS. The show explores the local real estate
market and provides practical education on buying, selling, investing, homeownership,
and the issues affecting today’s consumers. As a lending expert, Jayson brings the
mortgage perspective to these conversations, sharing professional advice on financing
strategies, loan options, affordability, and the homebuying process in a way that makes
complex lending topics easier to understand.
He brings that same personal, education-first approach to Building the Framework for
Home Ownership, helping students understand the factors that influence mortgage
approval, affordability, credit, down payment strategies, and the homebuying process.
Throughout the course, Jayson will focus on making these topics easier to understand
and giving students practical knowledge they can use to build a clear path toward
homeownership.

NOTE: REFUND POLICY
For courses lasting less than eight weeks, you must notify the ACE office at least two full business days before the class start date to receive a refund. A $10 cancellation fee will be applied. If you elect to keep your funds on account for future use, the $10 cancellation fee will be waived. If the request is received less than two full business days before the start of class, no refunds, transfers, or credits will be issued.