HomeFree-USA has opened applications for its Fall 2026 Develop the Developer℠ Academy, an intensive real estate development training program designed to help aspiring and emerging developers build sustainable businesses and create housing that strengthens Maryland communities.
The Fall 2026 Academy will place a special emphasis on multifamily development. Participants will receive practical education covering project feasibility, property acquisition, due diligence, zoning, permitting, construction oversight, financing and the development of a bankable project package.
“Successful real estate development requires more than a great idea,” said Milan Griffin, Chief Operations Officer of HomeFree-USA. “Developers need the right team, a clear financial strategy, strong industry relationships and the ability to present projects that lenders and investors can confidently support. The Develop the Developer Academy brings those critical pieces together while creating a community that continues supporting participants long after the training ends.”
The five-day, in-person Academy will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on October 21–23 and October 26–27, 2026, in the Baltimore metropolitan area. The first day will take place at HomeFree-USA’s headquarters, located at 8201 Corporate Drive in Landover, Maryland. Participants will also complete a collaborative capstone project to be presented on November 13, 2026.
Through expert-led instruction, hands-on exercises, real-world examples and direct conversations with professionals throughout the development industry, Academy participants will learn how to:
- Evaluate the feasibility of multifamily development opportunities;
- Navigate property acquisition, zoning, permitting and local regulations;
- Identify financing strategies, loan products and potential capital sources;
- Develop project budgets, financial projections and bankable deal packages;
- Manage construction, contractors, timelines and project risks;
- Build relationships with lenders, investors, government officials and community partners; and
- Launch, manage and grow a sustainable real estate development business.
The program is designed for aspiring and emerging real estate developers, investors, contractors, housing professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders seeking to develop projects in Maryland. Developers who have already completed real estate or investment projects may also benefit from the Academy’s advanced instruction, market-specific insights and access to industry professionals.
Only 30 participants will be selected for the Fall 2026 cohort, allowing for an interactive experience, meaningful networking and personalized engagement with instructors. Applications must be submitted by September 18, 2026. Acceptance notifications are scheduled to be distributed on September 25.
Tuition is $1,299 per participant, and a four-payment installment option will be available. A $39 nonrefundable application fee is required at the time of submission and will be applied toward the tuition balance for accepted participants.
The Academy extends beyond the five-day training experience. Graduates receive continued support through quarterly check-ins, specialized technical assistance, virtual programming and connections to financing opportunities and industry experts. This ongoing partnership is designed to help developers move from education and planning to active project execution.
HomeFree-USA advances economic opportunity and homeownership in communities nationwide through homebuyer and homeowner education, affordable housing development, workforce development, industry partnerships and community-focused programming. The Develop the Developer℠ Academy supports that mission by preparing developers to create quality housing, revitalize neighborhoods and generate long-term community impact.
To learn more or submit an application, visit HomeFreeUSA.org/Developer. Questions may be directed to Events@HomeFreeUSA.org.
About HomeFree-USA
HomeFree-USA is a HUD-approved nonprofit housing counseling organization committed to serving as a bridge to financial strength and legacy through homeownership. The organization provides homebuyer preparation, financial education, foreclosure prevention, affordable housing development, workforce development and capacity-building programs that help individuals, families and communities nationwide achieve greater financial stability.
