TAMPA, Fla. – April 22, 2009 – Experts say it’s a first-time homebuyer’s market. Low interest rates and falling housing prices are good news for renters ready to make a move, and one local group aims to help such buyers through the process – from securing a mortgage to coming up with the cash to make a downpayment on the home of their dreams.
The Realtors Care Foundation, a nonprofit arm of the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors, was established in 2007 to provide educational and housing programs and services to Hillsborough County residents.
The group recently launched a downpayment assistance program to help prospective first-time homebuyers.
“People who want to purchase a home in Hillsborough County need to be aware that we are here to help,” said Jim Selvey, foundation president.
To qualify for the program, applicants – first-time homebuyers or those who have not owned a home in the past three years – must purchase a single-family house, condominium or townhouse and meet income limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Applicants also must agree to remain current on property taxes and homeowner association fees and certify that they will remain owners for a minimum of five years.
The group holds fundraisers and solicits private donations to fund the program. Grants are reviewed and awarded by committee.
“The goal is to help as many as we can,” Selvey said.
The foundation will hold a golf tournament to benefit its charitable programs May 28 at Buckhorn Springs Golf and Country Club in Valrico. Registration includes 18 holes, cart and lunch and costs $90. To sign up, contact Sarah Hepburn at (813) 879-7010.
For information about the Realtors Care Foundation or down-payment assistance grants, call (813) 879-7010 or go to www.realtorscareofgtar.org or call Michael Mundy w/Landsburg Realty 813-679-2754.
Copyright © 2009 Tampa Tribune, Fla
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