"To date, we've had over 1,100 classroom hours, we've had about 100 graduates and, of those graduates, about 1 in 10 does go on to purchase a home," said the CHA's April Woodall. "So, that's really a great outcome of this class. They have the power and the information to go forward with that American dream."

Participant Perry Mace added, "I'm looking at all options, lease-to-own, maybe a 15-year mortgage vs. a 30-year mortgage."

Classes are free for low- or moderate-income Boone County residents. The Money Smart program has been helping future homeowners since 2004.

"I think it's a wonderful program," said Linda Crigler of Boone County National Bank. "It's very enlightening and encouraging to people to learn about all of the options that are available to them and give them the power that they need to make those informed decisions."

Graduates can apply for Columbia's Downpayment Assistance Program.

Reported by Hayley Sherga