Durham Regional Financial Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit HUD Approved and COA Accredited agency formed in 1998 to meet consumer needs primarily in Durham county. Consumers in Alamance, Orange, Granville and Wake Counties are served as well as others throughout the state of North Carolina.
How do we get clients? Word of mouth is the primary medium by which consumers seek our services. Additionally, clients hear about us through our partners, including local, state and federal agencies, banks, credit unions, and other lenders. Some lenders send their customers to us to received credit counseling in order to obtain certain loans. The City of Durham refers people who would benefit from the first time homebuyers program. Whereas the City provides the funds, we provide the education and counseling. Habitat for Humanity makes credit-counseling part of their package. Other clients hear about us through community functions and trade shows where we set up information tables. We display information in VITA sites where people come for free income tax preparation. Finally, nothing beats word-of-mouth advertising generated by a good reputation for service.
What is unique about DRFC and its solutions? We believe that as a non-profit, accredited agency customers receive the best possible experience. Often the customer’s situation isn’t the best, but a good counselor can help sort through to see the possibilities and generate if not solutions, at least a plan of action.
We are a big believer in preparing people realistically for homeownership by making clear the financial commitment as well as the time and emotional commitment. We are very clear that the homeowner needs to afford not just the house but also the life that goes with the house…the extra things, as well as the maintenance.
For all people, we believe it is very instructive to know what it costs one to live. Knowing the details of where your money is going is very powerful. The numbers tell the story, therefore we offer financial education workshops to all income levels. Some are interested in the basics of money management while others want to know more about how to increase their net worth, investing and retirement.
Our menu of services is available to anyone in the state of North Carolina.
In 1997, Consumer Credit Counseling Service received the Non-Profit Business of the Year award from the City of Durham.