In order to attend these sessions, be sure to register for the conference at housingconference.org if you have not already.

Interested in homeownership and dealing with homes in today’s economy? Check out these three great sessions:

Tuesday, April 27

Tough Choices: Assisting Homeowners with a Dignified Exit Strategy (8:30 am – 10:00 am)

Despite the best efforts of foreclosure counseling, some homeowners simply have fallen on hard economic times and cannot keep up a mortgage; even one that would be modified. What advice does a housing counselor or local community organization provide? Hear innovative strategies from experts across the state on this critical topic.

Re-Thinking the American Dream of Homeownership: A Frank Discussion (10:15 am – 11:45 am)

Is homeownership for everyone? This controversial question is important for our industry to ask in the face of the current housing crisis and in preparing strategies for the future. Join us for a lively, informative discussion and facilitated debate. Please come prepared to share your thoughts and ideas on the subject.

Moving Homes in a Weak Market: An Innovative Best Practice (1:45 pm – 3:15 pm)

Many nonprofit housing developers are finding themselves unable to sell homes in a fragile real estate market flooded with inexpensive, abandoned and/or foreclosed homes. The Greater Lansing Housing Coalition, a nonprofit housing developer, has an innovative strategy for moving homes that is modeled after HGTV’s ‘Design on a Dime’ television show. This session will illustrate a best practice model utilizing creativity, volunteer labor, and community members to get houses sold.