N
ew American Funding (NAF) is expanding its Housing Advocate Certification (HAC) program to real estate professionals nationwide. Originally developed for NAF employees, the program has trained over 1,000 staff members and will now be open to external agents and brokerages.

    Mosi Gatling, senior vice president of strategic growth and expansion at NAF, will lead the program alongside Shanta Patton-Golar, marketing manager. The HAC program was created in response to the need for support among Black communities and aspiring homeowners. Gatling noted that loan decline rates for Black borrowers remain high, prompting a modernized approach.

    The certification is designed to provide education and training on understanding the history and barriers to Black homeownership. Participants will learn tailored marketing strategies to attract diverse clients, as well as professional development opportunities. The program aims to help real estate professionals connect with communities they serve by understanding their needs and perspectives.

    Gatling emphasized that the goal of the HAC program is not just to check diversity and inclusion boxes but to modernize fair housing from a community level. The program will explore psychological factors behind Black homeownership, moving beyond traditional bias training to address the emotional impact on families.

    The certification will be available at a cost "less than $100" and will debut during a live webinar on June 4. More details about the program will be shared at that time.