Master Homeowner Program
~New info below for 2026!~
The Erie County Land Bank is offering a unique education program creating successful homeowners, based on the Master Homeowner Program developed by Habitat for Humanity of Kanawha & Putnam in Charleston, West Virginia.
The Master Homeowner Program is a series of seven weekly classes intended for all homeowners, regardless of experience or age. Whether you're a first-time homeowner, recently living on your own, or just interested in basic DIY skills, this hands-on class will build your knowledge, confidence, and abilities.
You can take part in individual classes, or all seven! The classes are:
- Basic Home Maintenance - Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Learn what basic tools are needed for common tasks in and around the house and how to use them properly; why it is important to maintain your home and the results if you do not; and where to begin, what to look for, and in some circumstances how to perform maintenance that will keep the value of your investment intact.
- Legal & Insurance Issues - Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Learn from an attorney how to make the best insurance decisions, why estate planning is important, how not to become a victim of predatory lending, and what documents are involved with purchasing and owning a home.
- Home Energy Efficiency - Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Learn energy efficiency concepts, the advantages of controlling the conditioned air in your home, and how to identify and eliminate energy waste.
- Home Fire Safety & Prevention - Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Learn the most common causes of house fires, how to prevent fires, and what to do in case of fire. This class teaches participants, hands on, how to use fire extinguishers and properly place them in the home.
- Basic Household Plumbing - Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Learn how your home plumbing system works, where to check for leaks, and how to prevent clogs. This class identifies common problems with household plumbing systems.
- Home Electrical Basics - Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Learn the functions of a basic residential electrical system. This class teaches practical electrical safety, energy usage in the home, and how to hire an electrician if one is needed.
- Home & Neighborhood Safety - Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Learn to identify potential threats to your property and learn the best practices in reporting and deterring security risks. Also learn the importance of forming positive relationships with your close neighbors and the wider community, empowering you to improve your neighborhood.
~The Master Homeowner Program is being offered free of charge!~
We are excited to be able to offer this series at no cost! Due to the limited number of seats available, we are accepting applications rather than holding open registration.
~Applications are now open!~
PLEASE NOTE:
- There are 25 seats available for each class.
- You must be a resident of Erie County, Pennsylvania to apply.
- Any Erie County resident may apply. Priority will be given to current homeowners and prospective homebuyers.
- This class series is designed for adult homeowners.
- Applying does not guarantee registration.
Click HERE to apply!
