Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS) has received the Q1 2026 Impact Award recipient, receiving a $7,500 grant from Core Bank to help expand access to homeownership education and counseling for low‑ to moderate‑income families across the Omaha–Council Bluffs metro area.
TOPICS COVERED:
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Building Intergenerational Wealth Through Homeownership
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Rent vs. Own in Omaha
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Where FHAS Comes In
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A Proud Partnership Between FHAS and Core Bank
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Need Assistance Becoming a Homeowner?
Building Intergenerational Wealth Through Homeownership
Homeownership remains one of the most effective ways to build and pass on intergenerational wealth through home equity. However, the journey to owning a home can feel overwhelming without the right knowledge, preparation, and support.
To address these challenges, FHAS walks alongside families and individuals throughout their homeownership journey, providing education, service, and personalized guidance that helps turn the dream of homeownership into a lasting reality.
“A home is more than just a structure; it is a place where homeowners can connect, belong, grow and create legacy wealth.”
Rent vs. Own in Omaha
In the city of Omaha alone, there are 201,698 households, with 57.4% owner‑occupied. That leaves more than 40% of households renting their homes.
While renting offers flexibility and convenience, renters often face:
- Housing instability
- Rising rental costs
- Limited opportunities to build equity
Many renters earn enough income to support a mortgage but lack knowledge about the homebuying process—including how to prepare for mortgage qualification, understand the benefits of ownership, and confidently select a home. This gap in education and support keeps many families from converting their monthly rent payments into a long‑term, wealth‑building asset.
Where FHAS Comes In
Founded in 1968, FHAS originally focused on purchasing, rehabilitating, and reselling homes to increase ownership opportunities. Over time, it became clear that education was the missing link—and the organization shifted its focus to preparing families for sustainable homeownership.
Today, FHAS helps thousands of families each year break cycles of intergenerational poverty, build equity, and leave a legacy for future generations. FHAS addresses barriers to homeownership through its Homeownership for a Brighter and Stable Future Program, which offers comprehensive education and mentorship both before and after purchase.
Program services include:
- Financial education workshops
- Pre‑ and post‑purchase homeownership education
- Ongoing counseling and case management
By equipping families with knowledge and personalized support, FHAS helps ensure homeownership success not just at closing, but for years to come.
FHAS Success Story:
Ms. Stark was leasing a house with the intent to exercise her Option to Purchase that home from the owner. Unfortunately, Ms. Stark became ill and was unable to work for several months. She was referred to Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS) to meet with a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified counselor in order to receive utility, rent, or mortgage assistance.
While reviewing her documents, it was discovered that her Lease Agreement had a balloon payment of over $40K. Although she was aware, she had gotten behind on saving due to her sickness and had used her credit cards to pay bills and buy groceries when she was unable to work. She was working two jobs, receiving state assistance for her grandchild, and receiving a retirement income. Ms. Stark had been hoping to get a mortgage loan, but with her setbacks was unsure if it would be possible.
Ms. Stark attended FHAS’ homebuyer and financial education classes to work toward her homeownership goal. After FHAS helped her navigate some underwriting issues, she was approved for a mortgage loan with a monthly payment around half of her lease payment amount. Having achieved her homeownership goal, Ms. Stark is saving money, building equity and is an example of how you should never give up on your dream of homeownership.
A Proud Partnership Between FHAS and Core Bank
Core Bank has partnered with FHAS for many years to support education and housing stability in the Omaha area. David Hartman, President of Core Bank, and Loan Officer Joe Drollinger have led numerous FHAS homeownership workshops, sharing their expertise with current and future homeowners.
We are proud to support FHAS through the Q1 2026 Impact Award and to continue assisting families as they take meaningful steps toward sustainable homeownership.
Need Assistance Becoming a Homeowner?
For those ready to take the next step,
Family Housing Advisory Services serves the Omaha–Council Bluffs Metropolitan area.
FHAS Office Locations:
- Main Office: 2401 Lake Street, Omaha, NE
- South Omaha/Bellevue: 2108 Harvell Circle
- Council Bluffs: 1415 Avenue J
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the path to homeownership, FHAS is ready to help.
