Twin Cities Habitat Partners with Framework Homeownership to Launch Custom Homebuyer Education

Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity has partnered with Framework Homeownership to launch a custom homebuyer education program tailored specifically for Habitat homebuyers, powered by Framework, an online platform for homebuyers. This new initiative provides flexible, self-paced learning opportunities designed to help future homeowners succeed.

The transition to Framework’s online platform marks a significant step in how Twin Cities Habitat prepares homebuyers for one of the most important milestones of their lives. By combining Twin Cities Habitat's expert-led content with Framework’s intuitive online courses, resources, and tools, the program ensures that prospective homeowners can access high-quality education anytime, anywhere — setting them up for long-term success.

About Framework

Framework was founded in 2012 by two nonprofits, the Housing Partnership Network and the Minnesota Homeownership Center, in response to the 2008 housing crisis. The crisis exposed a critical need for better homeowner education, from understanding how to shop for a mortgage to managing homeownership responsibilities.

Since its founding, Framework has become a leading provider of online homebuyer education, helping over 1.5 million first-time homebuyers and homeowners across the country. Its network includes more than 150 partners, such as housing counseling groups, lenders, banks, and other housing organizations.

The Framework platform delivers engaging, interactive content that guides homebuyers through every stage of the process. Research shows that informed buyers are more likely to become successful homeowners.

"We wanted to build a network to reach as many future homeowners as possible. We know educated buyers are more likely to make better decisions and succeed as homeowners," said said Ezgi Kiriscioglu, Marketing Director at Framework.

Why Framework Makes a Difference

While there’s no shortage of free resources and information online, finding reliable and accurate guidance can be difficult. Homebuyers often struggle to know what to search for — and even when they find information, it’s not always up to date or trustworthy.

Framework’s courses adhere to national industry standards and undergo rigorous approval processes to ensure accuracy and relevance. "Many people walk away from our courses saying, 'I wish I had known this sooner,'" Kiriscioglu noted. "They find different programs that they didn't know about or learn things that they didn't consider, like how much it would cost to make a repair or pass on an inspection report."

Twin Cities Habitat homebuyers will have access to Framework’s Resource Center, which includes helpful resources like home maintenance checklists, budget worksheets, and sample home inspection reports. They can also enroll in additional courses like How to Manage Your Mortgage, Home Maintenance 101 , and Home Energy Basics. "Solar panels are huge right now, but scams are everywhere. Framework’s education helps buyers navigate these challenges and even learn about free energy audits," said Kiriscioglu.

A Custom Program for Habitat Homebuyers

The partnership with Twin Cities Habitat marks Framework’s second custom course launch. The Habitat Homeownership Program is tailored to the specific needs of Habitat homebuyers, addressing the unique challenges they face.

Portia Jackson, Director of Programs & Services at Twin Cities Habitat, led the development of the program. She aimed to convert Habitat’s existing in-person webinar series into a more accessible online format. In the past, homebuyer education was only offered on select days of the month, creating scheduling conflicts for many clients. If a client missed a session, they’d have to wait two to three weeks for the next one, which led to delays and frustration.

With the new online program, clients can now access courses anytime, from any device, including their phones. They can pause and resume lessons at their convenience, take notes, and use a highlighter feature to mark important information.

"Switching to an online format removes barriers and makes the education process more convenient and effective," Jackson said. "It’s about meeting people where they are and giving them the tools to succeed."

How It Works

The new homebuyer education program includes several key features designed to enhance learning and improve outcomes:

• Self-Paced Learning – Participants can access educational modules, videos, and interactive content at their convenience, allowing them to learn at their own pace and revisit materials as needed.
• Comprehensive Education – The program covers essential topics like budgeting, credit management, the mortgage process, and home maintenance — equipping future homeowners with the knowledge and skills necessary for long-term success.
• Interactive Tools – Framework’s platform includes quizzes and practical exercises to reinforce learning and ensure a thorough understanding of key concepts.
• Expert Support – While the platform provides flexibility, participants still benefit from the guidance of Twin Cities Habitat's experienced educators and advisors, who are available to answer questions and provide support.

The Framework platform also features a reporting dashboard that allows Twin Cities Habitat staff to track participant progress and identify any challenges clients might face. Staff can view feedback directly from the platform, gaining deeper insights into the learning process. "This allows us to be more proactive in supporting clients," Jackson explained.

A Step Toward Greater Homeownership Access

"At Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, our mission is to reduce barriers and expand access to affordable, sustainable homeownership," said Shereese Turner, Chief Program Officer at Twin Cities Habitat. "Partnering with Framework allows us to better prepare future homeowners and set them up for long-term success."

"We’re excited and honored to have been chosen to partner with Twin Cities Habitat," said Omar Esposito, President and CEO of Framework. "Our platform’s flexibility and comprehensive resources will help individuals gain the confidence and knowledge they need to navigate the homebuying process successfully. And we hope the transition to our online platform gives time back to the Twin Cities Habitat team members to reach and support their community in new ways."

Twin Cities Habitat’s new homebuyer education program, powered by Framework, reflects a shared commitment to empowering future homeowners. By providing flexible, accessible, and comprehensive education, the program is helping more people take confident steps toward homeownership — and a brighter future.