Diane Greene, North Carolina Association of REALTORS

Diane Greene Director of Community Outreach

North Carolina Workforce Housing Program

Develop and implement a comprehensive Workforce Housing Program that educates REALTORS ® and the public so that they can better utilize existing programs to increase homeownership. Program Goals

Critical workers -- teachers, police, and government employees – can’t afford to live in the communities they serve. Especially resort areas! The Need is Great

Example: Asheville Median home cost = $180,000 Salary needed = $53,731 Average salaries: Police officer = $45,802 Licensed practical nurse = $36,439 Elementary teacher = $46,351 The Need is Great

Workforce Housing Program
Educate REALTORS ® on affordable housing programs that will help them serve the workforce housing market
Help REALTORS ® connect with consumers

Give the public a central clearinghouse for information in an easy-to-use format
Bring more awareness to effective programs and resources

Dispel myths
Change perceptions

Educates REALTORS ® on all aspects of working with Workforce Housing clients
Allows participants to advertise their “Specialist” status in marketing tools
Provides networking opportunities through housing fairs and education programs

WHS Requirements
16 classroom hours
3 core classes: local, state and federal programs
Variety of electives - short sales
- foreclosure prevention
- sustainable building
- employer assisted housing

Program Goals
Graduate 50 members by mid 2010
Plan local outreach programs
Increase knowledge, expertise and market opportunities
Strengthen our market and community

WHS Outcomes
Graduated 76 members as of June 1
Held two housing fairs, one planned
June 22
Lot’s of interest in program – fall classes
filling up

Public Awareness & Education Redesigned website where users can search for housing programs and Workforce Housing Specialists

Public Awareness & Education Launched PR campaign to change perceptions about who needs affordable housing and to introduce resources

Public Awareness & Education Outcomes PR campaign launch covered by 3 TV stations, 2 radio stations and several newspapers

What’s Next
Fall classes, outreach events and PR in pilot markets
Expand to additional markets
Expand scope to include direct assistance

Main Challenges
Not expanding too fast for resources
Operating by committee
Sustaining the program

Main Successes
Lot’s of member interest
Lot’s of community interest
Building strong partnerships
Enhancement of REALTOR image

For More Information Contact Diane Greene 336-808-4234 [email_address] Visit our Website www.homes4nc.org

Diane Greene, North Carolina Association of REALTORS

by National Housing Conference & the Center for Housing Policy on Jun 17, 2010

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Diane Greene, North Carolina Association of REALTORS — Presentation Transcript