Housing and Budget Counseling Services

Navigating the path to financial and housing stability doesn't have to be overwhelming. R1’s free housing counseling service can provide the clarity and resources you need to comfortably live within your budget while working toward long-term financial  and housing goals. 

Listed below are a few of the counseling options R1 provides to residents of Northern Illinois. R1 is a Housing Counseling Agency certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Financial management & budget counseling

Everyone has financial goals. Whether you want to save for a down payment on a home, improve your credit, or cut down on excess spending, R1’s counselors can help. Schedule a one-on-one counseling session to learn how to save, pay off debts, and start down the path to financial stability.

Pre-purchase counseling

R1’s HUD-certified housing counselors will help you explore if homeownership is right for you, overcome financial hurdles, understand credit, and create a personalized action plan to achieve your goals.

We can help you:

  • Assess your financial situation

  • Create a realistic, attainable budget

  • Understand your credit report

  • Establish credit and improve your credit score

  • Determine if homeownership is right for you

  • Learn about mortgage and loan options

  • Navigate the homebuying process

  • Create an action plan to help achieve your housing goals

To get started, create an account and fill out our intake form at this link. A housing counselor will then contact you within three business days. If you have questions, you can call (815) 319-4462 or email hc@r1planning.org. We offer in-person and remote options for your convenience.

Equal Housing Opportunity