Consumers Learn How to Buy at Southern California Home Buyer’s Fair
   

By Paula Hess

The median price of a home in Southern California is hovering slightly above $300,000, the affordability index has risen to 53 percent, and there is a backlog of foreclosures. That combination spells tremendous opportunity for first-time buyers who in past years were locked out of the starter home market. Still, many of these buyers are sitting on the fence and want to learn more about the home-buying process before making their first offer.

These buyers can learn about available lending options when C.A.R. and the Los Angeles Times team up to present the second annual Southern California Home Buyer’s Fair this spring at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Like last year’s successful event, this event again will target first-time buyers and provide educational sessions that will demystify the home-buying process and spotlight the opportunities for uninitiated buyers. Armed with that information, these consumers may take the next bold step: contacting a REALTOR®. That’s the intent and reason that your Association is sponsoring this event.

Homeownership Seminars

>> The second annual Southern California Home Buyer’s Fair will emphasize the opportunities in the current market and provide classes covering a wide range of topics including:

• “What to Know Before You Buy”

• “Assistance Programs for First-time Buyers”

• “How to Buy a Home in Foreclosure”

• “Finding and Working With a REALTOR®”

• “How to Buy Your First Home”

• “How to Qualify for a Home Loan”

• “How to Save for a Home”

Many of these sessions will be presented in both English and Spanish and numerous sessions will be repeated during the two-day event. Attendees can participate in these seminars and learn the necessary steps to becoming a homeowner, as well as visit the Exhibit Hall, where lenders and those affiliated with the real estate industry will be on hand to answer questions and provide additional one-on-one information.

Last year’s event drew more than 5,000 attendees. This year, 7,000 attendees and 65 exhibitors—non-profits, mortgage lenders, REALTORS®/REALTOR® associations, credit counselors, trade associations, inspectors, credit scoring agencies, representatives from government-sponsored enterprises, and more—are expected to attend. To learn more about the event, its educational seminars, and the speakers, please visit www.homebuyersfair.com.

2008 Attendees’ Survey Comments

”Wow! What an excellent event! Thanks for providing outstanding resources and instructors!!”

“The ‘How to Buy a Property in Foreclosure’ and the ‘Short Sale’ seminars were EXCELLENT!! I learned a lot in a short time.”

“Very good and informative.  This is what I need prior to purchase.”

[Facts]

>> When: The Southern California Home Buyer’s Fair will be held Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

>> Where: Los Angeles Convention Center

>> Cost: Free

>> More info: REALTORS® and their clients are encouraged to visit www.homebuyersfair.com.

Paula Hess is senior editor for California Real Estate magazine.