Since the 1990s, CHAPA has provided professional training, curriculum standards, and best practice criteria for homebuyer counseling agencies across the state through the Massachusetts Homeownership Collaborative.

Through the Collaborative, CHAPA awards organizations a Seal of Approval, which recognizes agencies that meet or exceed a minimum standard in providing effective pre-purchase, group homebuyer counseling and education to first-time homebuyers with low and moderate incomes. These organizations must abide by the Collaborative’s code of ethics, participate in ongoing training, cover core material in their workshops, and more.

The Selection Committee, whose members are elected to staggered two-year terms by the Collaborative, reviews applications and awards the Seals of Approval.