Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home or moving up to something better, the Office of Community Housing can make the process easier.

OCH will be offering workshops on the following topics over the next six weeks. The workshops are free, but advance registration is required. To register, use the on-line form at the OCH Web site, www.upenn.edu/EVP/communityhousing/events.html. For more information about these workshops, call Bernadette Ramsey, outreach coordinator, at 215-573-9725.

Community Housing 101: Learn about the Guaranteed Mortgage Program and the benefits it offers. This workshop will take you through the process of applying and provide general home-buying information.
Thursday, Feb. 17 and Wednesday, March 15: 8 to 9 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. at the Office of Off-Campus Living, 4046 Walnut St.
Thursday, March 9: Noon to 1 p.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 720, Franklin Building, 3451 Walnut St.

Credit Counseling and Repair: This workshop shows you how to repair damaged credit and tells you what banks consider in making loans: credit scoring, credit reports, sources of credit and their differences.
Tuesday, March 21: Noon to 1 p.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. at the Office of Off-Campus Living.

Home Buying Seminar: Learn about the advantages of homeownership, home buying procedures, how to shop for a home, homeownership costs, financing, and what to do if you have credit problems.
Tuesday, Feb. 29 and Tuesday, March 14: Noon to 1 p.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 720, Franklin Building.

Homeowner’s Insurance: Learn how to protect your investment. Learn about the different types of insurance available and what you need to ensure proper coverage of your house and its contents.
Wednesday, March 1: Noon to 1 p.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 720, Franklin Building.

“Start Smart”: An introduction to United Bank of Philadelphia’s “Start Smart” program, a three-day workshop for first-time homebuyers. Learn about affordability, credit scoring, grants and more.
Wednesday, Feb. 23 and Thursday, March 23: Noon to 1 p.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 720, Franklin Building.