<b>Chamber is offering&nbsp;</b><b>help with homebuying</b>

The Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce, a HUD-approved agency, is offering classes for first-time homebuyers.&nbsp;

The classes, if completed, allow a homebuyer a certificate of 18 credit hours that can be presented to their loan officer to purchase a home. The primary objective of the program is to educate families and individuals in order to help them make smart decisions regarding improving their housing situation and meeting the responsibilities of tenancy and homeowership.&nbsp; &nbsp;

For the purposes of HUD's Housing Counseling Program, education is defined as formal classes, with established curriculum and instructional goals, provided in a group or classroom setting covering topics such as the home buying process; how to maintain a home; budgeting; fair housing; identifying and reporting predatory lending practices; and the importance of good credit. &nbsp;

The next session, “Are You Ready to Buy a Home?,” will be held from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, May 9, at the chamber office at 801 Bladen St. in Beaufort.

For additional information, call 843-986-1102.

<b>Public is invited to&nbsp;</b><b>First Friday event</b>

First Friday After Five, an event sponsored by the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 5, in downtown Beaufort.

This is an opportunity to explore galleries and downtown shops. There will also be refreshments and live music.