The Next Level

Estate Planning

This session is part of NHS Chicago’s Homeownership Week educational series.

Presented by Eva Adams-Ward, CDEL, this informational webinar is designed to help homeowners better understand how estate planning can support long-term housing stability and protect the home as a family asset.

This session will provide general education on wills, Transfer on Death Instruments, probate, and the importance of having a plan in place for what happens to property after death. Participants will learn how planning ahead can help reduce confusion for loved ones, avoid unnecessary delays, and support the transfer of property in a more informed and organized way.

The session will also explain common issues families may face when there is no plan in place and why estate planning is an important part of preserving homeownership across generations.

This workshop is ideal for homeowners, future homeowners, and families who want to better understand how estate planning tools can help protect their home, support family stability, and preserve generational wealth.

Topics include:

• Wills and estate planning basics
• Transfer on Death Instruments
• Understanding probate
• Protecting your home and family legacy

Are You Ready To Be a Landlord?

Presented by: Desiree Rideaux, Strategic Alliances, and Erica Myles, Community Investment Corporation (CIC)

Are you a first-time homebuyer interested in purchasing a two- to four-unit property and living in one of the units? NHS Chicago’s The Next Level: Investing in Real Estate two-part series is designed to help you better understand the opportunities, responsibilities, and preparation involved in becoming an owner-occupant landlord.

Buying a multi-unit home can be a pathway to homeownership while creating the potential for rental income. However, it is important to understand what lenders look for, how financing may work, and what it takes to manage a property and tenants responsibly.

Part One — Building the Foundation
Led by: Desiree Rideaux

Learn the basics of purchasing a two- to four-unit property as an owner-occupant. This session will cover the homebuying process, financing considerations, lender expectations, and important steps to take before purchasing a multi-unit home.

Part Two — Preparing to Be a Landlord
Presented by: Erica Myles

Explore the day-to-day responsibilities that come with renting out part of your property. Topics will include property management basics, tenant communication, legal responsibilities, and practical strategies to help protect your home and investment.

By the end of this series, participants will have a clearer understanding of whether owner-occupant landlord homeownership is the right fit for their goals and what steps they can take to prepare.

Owner-Occupant Property Management Training

Presented in partnership with Community Investment Corporation (CIC)
Facilitated by Erica Myles, Community Investment Corporation

Planning to purchase a 2–4 unit building and live in one of the units? This certified, online Owner-Occupant Property Management Training is offered through NHS Chicago in partnership with CIC and is designed to help participants confidently manage both their home and investment property.

In this three-hour micro-learning course, participants will learn how to:

• Navigate the dual role of homeowner and landlord
• Understand owner and tenant rights and responsibilities
• Follow tenant screening best practices and fair housing requirements
• Maintain positive landlord-tenant relationships
• Avoid common pitfalls that can lead to costly issue

This certified training meets lender education requirements for buyers purchasing a two-unit or larger owner-occupied property.

As part of NHS Chicago’s The Next Level: Investing in Real Estate series, this course is ideal for new or aspiring owner-occupant landlords who want to build wealth responsibly and manage their property the right way from day one.