Housing Resource Fair is this Tuesday

As part of its efforts to stimulate local economic activity, the City of Renton is partnering with financial institutions, non-profits and real estate professionals to hold a Housing Resources Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 15.

The fair is 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Renton Community Center, 1715 Maple Valley Highway.

The goals of the Housing Resources Fair are to promote resources available to consumers and to stimulate additional housing purchasing and rental activity.

“We are excited to offer this clearinghouse of resources for those who are considering buying a home or are struggling to stay in the home they own. This is another creative economic stimulus program that could only be possible through the strong partnerships in this community,” said Mayor Denis Law.

The event is free for consumers and will include workshops for both home buyers and homeowners. A Workshop for Home Buyers will be held from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and will feature information on the soon-to-expire, first-time homebuyer’s $8,000 tax credit and mortgage loan options, products and programs.

A Workshop for Home Owners will be held from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. and will include information on refinancing options and loan modification tools, home improvement loans and foreclosure assistance.

In addition to the free information and workshops being offered, each exhibitor has contributed three $25 gift cards to serve as door prizes, so a number of $25 gift cards will be given free to randomly selected Housing Fair attendees. Light refreshments will also be provided.

Over 25 organizations are expected to participate in the event as exhibitors, including multiple financial institutions, real estate agents and nonprofits with significant resources for consumers. During the event, consumers will have a chance to visit one-on-one with lenders, real estate professionals, financial and housing educators and representatives of Renton’s major apartment communities. Hundreds of attendees are anticipated.

The Renton Housing Resources Fair is made possible through a sponsorship with Freddie Mac.

This event is an initiative of the City of Renton Community & Economic Development Department, which is working to help stimulate the local economy and preserve and create jobs during these challenging economic times.

Additional efforts include successfully pursuing millions of dollars in state and federal stimulus funding, the innovative www.therentonformula.com corporate real estate website, “Survive and Thrive” workshops for businesses held jointly with the Renton Chamber of Commerce and featuring the Renton Small Business Development Center, and the city’s ongoing “Shop Renton, Buy Ahead of the Curve” campaign.

Members of the public who have questions about this event may email them to dced@rentonwa.gov or call 425-430-7214.