![Home Ownership Image showing a family with a house sold sign](/image/home_ownership.jpg)
Owning your own home is part of the American Dream and likely, the largest purchase and investment you will ever make. Recognizing that home ownership is not only a dream but also an important responsibility, the New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection offers resources to help consumers purchase and preserve the value of their homes.
Misleading financial information, fraud and a lack of transparency in mortgage practices have contributed to the foreclosure and mortgage crisis. In response, the Division has focused its efforts in providing assistance and educating consumers about these home ownership issues.
Purchasing a Home
Home buying can be difficult, especially if it is your first time. That's why the Division has developed a tool that provides "directions" as you travel down the road to home buying.
Home Improvements
Studies have shown that initiating home repairs or improvements often causes great concern and apprehension. The Division provides consumers with information they can use before they contract for home improvements. This includes the Division's Ask the Expert program, which enables consumers to get professional advice about a project before work has begun.
Home Maintenance Series
Many homeowners worry about tackling the chores in the house. The Division provides general home maintenance information to help preserve the value and safety of your home.
Household and Outdoor Safety
Help prevent injuries by being mindful of the Division's suggested household and outdoor safety precautions.
Foreclosure Prevention
The Division is spreading the message that many homeowners can avoid foreclosure and not lose their homes if they are proactive.
Loan Modification and Mortgage Scams
Loan modification and other mortgage scams are proliferating at a rapid pace. Scam artists prey on unsuspecting homeowners who are facing foreclosure. Every day, consumers are lured by the promise of a loan modification that they hope will help them stay in their homes. As a result, consumers are losing thousands of dollars and in some cases, their homes. The Division provides the links and resources to help prevent consumers from falling victim to these offers and schemes.