OHFA celebrates the dream of homeownership, examines critical issues and trends impacting affordable housing during National Homeownership Month

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COLUMBUS, OH – June 1, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — June is annually recognized as Homeownership Month nationally and here in Ohio as declared by Governor Ted Strickland. In the spirit of Homeownership Month, the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) is reaching out to communities across the state, not only to raise awareness of the diverse selection of programs available to potential homebuyers and homeowners, but also to address critical issues impacting affordable housing. 

“OHFA addresses the state’s housing needs and supports underserved populations including minorities, seniors, and veterans,” said Doug Garver, OHFA Executive Director. “The purchase of a home not only builds wealth, but it also produces a sense of pride and accomplishment. Homeownership has encouraged thousands of Ohioans to save and invest, to take pride in their neighborhoods and to play an active, responsible role in the life of their communities.”

The Agency has helped Ohio families achieve and sustain the American dream of homeownership since 1983. From First-Time Homebuyer Programs to Target Area Loans and the Ohio Heroes Program, OHFA provides programs that help borrowers make the transition to successful homeownership. With affordable fixed rate mortgage products and Down Payment Assistance programs for first-time homebuyers, OHFA helps make homeownership attainable for qualified borrowers who might not afford a home otherwise.

Homebuyer education is valuable not only for new homebuyers who are ready to purchase their first home but also for existing homeowners who are struggling to stay in their homes due to financial stress. Throughout the month of June, OHFA has planned educational outreach efforts to provide information on homeownership and financial tools to Ohio families in celebration of Homeownership Month.

In addition to its programs, OHFA recently partnered with The Ohio State University’s John Glenn School of Public Affairs to conduct and analyze research on critical issues and trends impacting the affordable housing industry.

“There is a critical need to analyze affordable homeownership programs and strategies to better reach and support minority and underserved households and neighborhoods,” Garver said. “We will use data collected to enhance our policies and programs, leading Ohio’s affordable housing industry into the future.”

For a complete list of upcoming events, visit www.ohiohome.org and click on the News and Events section, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Contact the state’s housing authority toll free at 1-888-362-6432 to learn more about OHFA’s Homeownership programs.

OHFA utilizes federal and state resources to provide housing opportunities for families and individuals through programs designed to create, preserve, and manage affordable housing throughout the State of Ohio. The Agency is a self-supporting quasi-public agency governed by an eleven-member board, nine of whom are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Two additional seats on the board, by statute, are reserved for the Director of Development and the Director of Commerce, or their designees, and both serve as ex officio voting members.

Media Contact:  Arlyne Alston
Email: aalston (at) ohiohome (dot) org
Phone: 614.387.2863

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OHFA utilizes federal and state resources to provide housing opportunities for families and individuals through programs designed to create, preserve, and manage affordable housing throughout the State of Ohio. The Agency is a self-supporting quasi-public agency governed by an eleven-member board, nine of whom are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Two additional seats on the board, by statute, are reserved for the Director of Development and the Director of Commerce or their designees, and both serve as ex officio voting members

Contact:

Erin Biehl
Phone: 614-387-2863

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