Homewise

Homewise is a Santa Fe-based nonprofit and certified community development financial institution that helps New Mexicans become successful, long-term homeowners. Founded in 1986, originally as the Neighborhood Housing Services of Santa Fe, it has grown into a statewide leader in affordable homeownership, combining financial education, lending, real estate development, and home improvement services under one roof.

The organization's integrated model is distinctive. Homewise offers homebuyer education and financial coaching, originates and services its own mortgage loans, develops and sells affordable homes, and provides home refinancing and energy efficiency improvements. By keeping these functions in-house, it guides clients through the entire process of buying and keeping a home, with a particular focus on first-time and lower-income buyers.

Homewise develops residential communities in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and other parts of the state, building homes priced to be attainable for working families. Its financial coaching helps clients improve credit, reduce debt, and build savings, addressing the barriers that often keep people from qualifying for conventional mortgages.

As a CDFI, Homewise channels lending capital into communities and households that mainstream financial institutions often underserve. The organization emphasizes responsible lending and long-term stability, working to keep homeowners in their homes and to build household wealth through equity.

New Mexico faces significant affordability and wage challenges, and Homewise positions homeownership as a path to financial security and stronger neighborhoods. Funded through lending operations, grants, philanthropy, and investment capital, the organization has helped thousands of families purchase homes and reflects a model of housing nonprofit that blends mission with sustainable financial practice.