Although attendees came from all over, what they all had in common was a need to learn about buying a home for the first time. The Lakewood Resource and Referral Center (LRRC)’s First-Time Home Buyer Open House, held recently in partnership with Solutions to End Poverty Soon (STEPS) and the Township of Lakewood, did not disappoint!

Vendors helped attendees gain a better understanding of what mortgage options are available and how to qualify for them. Representatives from local lending institutions discussed topics related to the home-buying process, with a special emphasis on lower interest rates and down payment requirements with no PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance).

Attendees also had the opportunity to discuss and review mortgage products with each lender and receive preliminary prequalification for loans. LRRC and STEPS certified housing counselors were on hand to answer questions.

Each participant received a copy of the all-new second edition of the LRRC’s Home Buyer’s Handbook, which offers a summary of the entire home-buying process and important advice for home buyers, as well as several interesting new features.

The LRRC offers a twice-monthly homeownership education session required by many lenders in order for clients to take advantage of first-time home buyer mortgage products.

To ask a question, register to attend a housing education session, or schedule an appointment with a housing case manager, call the LRRC at 732-942-9292 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Call for specific times of walk-in and telephone hours.

About the Lakewood Resource and Referral Center (LRRC): The LRRC, a federally-designated 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization located at 212 Second Street, Suite 204, Lakewood, provides free comprehensive social services, information, referrals, and assistance for government and private sector programs and auxiliary services in such areas as housing, rental counseling, health care, insurance plans, nutrition, and utilities. For more information about the LRRC, call 732-942-9292 or email [email protected].

[Press Release]