Authors
Laura R. Peck, Shawn R. Moulton, Debbie Gruenstein Bocian, Tori Morris, Donna DeMarco
Abt’s evaluation of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) First-Time Homebuyer Education and Counseling Demonstration strengthens foundational knowledge on the impact of free homebuyer education and counseling services. The study assessed outcomes across three domains: preparedness and search, financial capability, and sustainable homeownership. It also tested two modes of delivering services: in person and remote. Among the findings, homebuyer education and counseling increased total savings and investments for women and younger treatment group members. Additionally, the report provides a perspective on what more needs to be done to provide equitable access to homeownership.
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Housing, Communities & Asset Building in North America
APPAM Fall Research Conference 2026
Abt is a Gold Sponsor of APPAM 2026. Catch us in Boston, in our sessions and at booth 304, or connect with the team here!
Closing the Gap: Surveying LA Renters to Improve Housing Access
Abt helped HACLA collect and analyze current Los Angeles rental data, showing rents were about 12% higher than federal estimates and providing evidence to support voucher subsidy levels that better reflect local housing costs and improve access to stable housing.
23rd Research and Evaluation Conference on Self-Sufficiency (RECS)
Abt’s Allan Porowski and Sandra Wilson will present evidence-based insights to help move family well-being, economic mobility, and self-sufficiency forward.
The Impact of Resident Services on Property Financial Performance
The study uses a quasi-experimental design to test the hypothesis that the coordination and provision of resident services improves properties’ financial health.