Financial Literacy
Breaking the Cycle™ is a financial literacy program designed and implemented by BDFS Group in the spring of 2008. In this eight-week course, program participants learn the basic tenets of managing every day finances and credit as a foundation to beginning the home ownership process. In the course, participants learn:
(Click each heading for more information)
- Fundamentals of understanding credit and how credit works
In the Credit segment we take a participant from understanding the basics of credit to analyzing their own credit reports. We teach them how certain behaviors correlate to and impact a credit score. We then discuss how to modify those behaviors to increase a credit score; and finally, we analyze each individual’s credit report and discuss options for strengthening their credit.
- Understanding banking and developing a banking relationship
In the Banking segment we discuss the economic and personal benefits of developing a relationship with a bank. We discuss what a bank does, what products and services a bank offers, and the potential benefits of establishing a banking relationship. We also cover the proper use of banking products such as checking and savings accounts.
- How to create and maintain a family budget
In the Budgeting segment we begin by defining a budget and discussing with participants the steps to creating a budget. We also work one on one with each participant to evaluate each participant’s current financial situation and to identify and address any negative behaviors that may impede the participant from maintaining a successful budget, Finally, we guide participants through the actual budgeting process based on their particular financial situation.
- An overview of the home ownership/purchasing/financing process
In the Home Ownership segment we walk participants through applying for a mortgage, selecting a real estate agent, selecting an insurance agent, items to consider when purchasing a home, the process for preparing for closing, what to expect on day one of home ownership, and what to expect in the long term as a home owner.
- Wealth creation – what it means and where to start
In the Wealth Creation segment we focus on using real estate as a wealth creation vehicle. We discuss how to leverage current assets as well as future assets to create wealth. We talk about the benefits and drawbacks of renting vs. “flipping” real estate. In this segment we also give an introduction to other vehicles used to create wealth.
It is our belief that Breaking the Cycle is an important first step towards financial stability and breaking the cycle of poverty in underserved and undervalued communities. With the fundamentals learned in this class participants will be equipped with the basic skills necessary to understand and navigate through the ever evolving housing and credit markets.