• 2860 East Point Street | East Point, GA
  • 770-961-6900
First-Time Homebuyer's Workshop
  • Georgia & Alabama | info@depower.org
  • Mississippi | info_ms@depower.org

formerly D&E A Housing & Economic Empowerment Center

Creating Pathways to Possibility.

Homeownership changes everything — not just for families, but for generations. D&E’s Three P’s to Housing Power open the door to lasting opportunity, helping families prepare, purchase, and preserve with purpose.

  • Our Flagship Services

Three Ps to
Housing Power

At D&E, we believe that safe, affordable housing is the foundation for strong families and thriving communities. Yet for many low- to moderate-income households, the path to homeownership can feel out of reach. Our HUD-Certified Housing Counselors deliver evidence-based education addressing the primary barriers to housing stability. From saving for a down payment to improving credit, the challenges are real—but they are not impossible. That’s why we created the Three P’s to Housing Power: Prepare. Purchase. Preserve. Each step is designed to equip families with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to not only buy a home—but to keep it for generations. To apply, call us at 770-961-6900.

Prepare

For many families, saving for a home can feel overwhelming. But at D&E, we show that the dream of homeownership is possible. Our education and counseling programs guide individuals through every step—transforming uncertainty into empowerment. 

The Homebuyer’s Club helps future homeowners who are navigating credit or financial challenges. Over 6 to 18 months, participants gain the skills and support needed to confidently move toward homeownership.

Through the club, members receive: 

  • Guidance from certified housing counselors 
  • Insights from trusted industry professionals 
  • Practical tools to manage money and build savings 
  • Hands-on skills for budgeting and financial planning 
  • Step-by-step strategies to improve credit 

Strong credit is the key to opening doors. Through our Credit Counseling program, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how credit works and how to build a lasting financial future.

In three one-on-one sessions, participants learn: 

  • How to read and understand a credit report 
  • What factors shape your credit score 
  • Debt management and settlement strategies 
  • Consumer rights and credit laws 
  • Practical tools for goal setting and financial planning 

 

We provide worksheets, resource guides, and even sample correspondence letters to credit bureaus—everything you need to rebuild and maintain a healthy credit profile for life. 

Purchase

When you’re ready to buy, D&E is here to guide you from start to finish. Our purchase programs ensure you not only find a home—but make the best decision for your family’s future.

First-Time Homebuyer’s Workshop

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial steps you’ll ever take. Our 6-to 8-hour workshop prepares you to make informed, confident choices with insights from real estate professionals.

Topics include: 

  • The homebuying process from start to finish 
  • Budgeting, credit, and homeownership readiness 
  • The “dos & don’ts” of the industry 
  • Guidance from agents, inspectors, and insurance experts 
Register for a class

Not quite mortgage-ready? Our Lease-Purchase Program provides a clear, supportive pathway for individuals and families who need more time to strengthen their credit, savings, or financial history before qualifying for a home loan. This program allows participants to begin the journey of homeownership right away—living in their future home while working toward full mortgage eligibility.

How It Works: 
  • Attend monthly workshops and one-on-one counseling sessions to strengthen budgeting, savings, and credit habits. 
  • Develop individualized spending and action plans designed to remove barriers to mortgage approval. 
  • Work toward “mortgage readiness” within 12 months or less. 
  • Identify and move into a property in as little as 2–3 months while continuing the program. 

To participate, individuals and families must: 

  • Attend an initial workshop introducing the Lease-Purchase philosophy, program structure, and expectations. 
  • Commit to active participation in monthly club sessions. 
  • Accept and uphold the terms and conditions of the program. 

This structured approach empowers participants not only to enter homeownership, but to do so with the knowledge, confidence, and financial stability to succeed long-term. 

Preserve

Owning a home is just the beginning—keeping it is where the real power lies. Our preservation program give families the tools to safeguard their investment and maintain stability for the long term. 

Through interactive classes, homeowners learn how to: 

  • Manage budgets and debt wisely 
  • Maintain and protect their property 
  • Restore or strengthen credit 
  • Avoid predatory lending practices 
  • Navigate refinancing and foreclosure prevention 

If refinancing could improve your situation, D&E will help you understand your options and connect you with lenders who provide affordable, market-rate mortgage products. 

No one should face foreclosure alone. Our FREE foreclosure prevention services offer compassionate, judgment-free support. Our dedicated HUD-certified Housing Counselors advocate for families, negotiate with lenders, and explore every option to help homeowners stay in their homes. At D&E, preserving homeownership means preserving dignity, stability, and hope. 

The Three P’s to Housing Power—Prepare. Purchase. Preserve.— are more than programs; they’re a promise. A promise that homeownership is possible, sustainable, and within reach for families who dare to dream.

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