Tightened credit and increased down payments are just two indications of the new reality in lending practices. 

To find out how these changes impact potential homebuyers, the DuPage Homeownership Center is offering free classes for first time home buyers from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the following dates:

• Saturday, Sept. 13, Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St., Naperville;

• Saturday, Sept. 27, Outreach Community Center, 345 S. President St., Carol Stream;

• and Saturday, Oct. ., Addison Village Hall, 1 Friendship Plaza, Addison.

An additional class for Spanish-speaking individuals will be offered on Saturday, Sept. 6, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 515 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton.

At the classes, experts will review different types of mortgages and explain what it takes to qualify for a loan.  They also will provide valuable tips on finding the right home, negotiating the sales contract and hiring professional services such as attorneys and home inspectors.

Although the class is free, reservations are required and can be made by calling the Center at (630) 260-2500.

For more information about any of the DuPage Homeownership Center’s programs, visit www.dhoc.org.