Housing Consumer Education Center

Provided with good information, people will make good decisions about purchasing a home, renting an apartment, or managing a rental property. HRA offers a wealth of information about local, state and federal programs that are available to Franklin County and North Quabbin residents. HRA provides housing education for tenants, landlords, prospective homebuyers, and homeowners that will help them maximize housing stability, strengthen investments, and minimize disputes.

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program is currently funded for residents of Franklin County, MA.. Please fill in the HCEC Client Assessment Form form to help us best serve you. The completed form may be returned to our office via walk in, US mail, or fax. 413-863-9289, attention Joanne. Our office hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, we close daily from noon to 1:00 PM.

Contact
Joanne Glier at 413-863-9781, extension 150, or via e-mail. with any additional questions.

Gain information on the rights and responsibilities tailored to help renters function independently in the private, non-subsidized housing market including:

• Information on security deposits, leases, and fair housing
• Access to information on lead hazards and other code violations
• Housing search strategies

HRA provides basic home ownership education to first-time buyers to help them find and finance a home, including:

• Information on low-interest mortgages and eligibility guidelines
• Special training for the purchase of multifamily homes, including rental property management and financial planning
• Basic information about section 8 home ownership

Maintaining a home and dealing with unforeseen emergencies can easily stretch the budgets of many homeowners. HRA offers:

• Post-purchase education to address problems which may lead to mortgage default, foreclosure, or loss of a home
• Information about programs available for home repair and weatherization

Homeowner Support

HRA offers information and referrals for homeowners. Call 413-863-9781 or email for more information.

HRA's housing education services offers rental property owners and managers valuable information on landlord rights and responsibilities to maximize their investment including:

• Information on addressing lead hazards and other code violations
• Written materials such as the Property Management Manual for Massachusetts Rental Owners and sample forms are available

Contact HRA office at (413) 863-9781 x150.