The decision to invest in a home can be one of the biggest and best of a person’s life, but it should not be made lightly. Most housing counselors can offer free help to those who are looking at buying their first home, as well as those who already own a home and are facing financial issues. A housing counselor should be contacted before making any quick decisions about buying, upgrading, or even foreclosing on a home to determine if the best interests of the homeowner are being upheld.