City of Huntsville Housing Expo goes virtual to help first-time homeowners
Published on November 10, 2020
– The benefits to homeownership are well known and the City of Huntsville’s Community Development Department hopes to make the process easier with its upcoming 2020 Virtual Housing Expo.
Aimed at assisting potential and first-time homeowners in demystifying the home-buying process, the 2020 Virtual Housing Expo will take place on Saturday, November 14, from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. During this all-virtual event, local and national subject matter experts will conduct a series of live and pre-recorded workshops on topics ranging from aging-friendly housing to addressing the barriers to Fair Housing.
Free to the public, the Virtual Housing Expo will feature a virtual exhibit hall offering resources for homeowners, renters, residents facing foreclosure, residents seeking credit counseling, small business owners, seniors, youth and veterans.
“Home ownership is often the most significant financial investment a person can make,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “Learning how to successfully navigate the purchasing process can seem overwhelming, particularly for first-time buyers and those living in lower income neighborhoods. The 2020 Virtual Housing Expo has the resources to help Huntsville residents realize their dreams for home ownership.”
The Housing Expo is designed to provide a “one stop shop” for critical resources related to housing. Residents will find answers to important questions – Is it better to rent or own? Can I receive assistance with a down payment or closing costs? Once I purchase a home, what will it cost to maintain?
“The 2020 Virtual Housing Expo is a great opportunity to learn firsthand from industry leaders who are ready to assist you with your housing needs,” said Scott Erwin, Manager of Huntsville’s Community Development Department.
Turkessa Coleman, the event’s primary planner and a member of the Community Development team, explained how this year’s digital format will help more people attain that all-important firsthand knowledge.
“Because of the public health pandemic, we had to reimagine the format of this important resource,” Coleman said. “With a new, user-friendly website and the ability to rewatch sessions and interact virtually with panelists, we have a safe way for Huntsville residents to get the information they need to make their housing dreams a reality.”
Participants are encouraged to pre-register by visiting Huntsvilleal.gov/HousingExpo. Attendees who pre-register by 5 p.m., November 13, will also be eligible for door prizes.
Who should attend?
Anyone interested in learning more about the following should attend this free, virtual event.
- Home purchasing assistance
- Tenant & landlord resources
- Affordable housing showcase
- Aging in place planning
- Small business strategies
- Remodeling & repair demos
- Financial literacy training
- Veteran’s resources
- Millennials and new housing trends
- Credit and foreclosure counseling
- Access to affordable rentals