Gulp. Now I've gone and done it. I've created a Facebook "Event" for this seminar and sent it off into cyber space, so now I am committed. Gotta do it. No choice. No turning back!
"This" - an educational seminar on home buying - is something I've been thinking about doing for a while. The event will be held next Wednesday evening, June 24, 2009 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the Windsor Court Condominiums, 1610 Grove Avenue, Unit 2. To some extent, hosting a seminar seems a natural extension of blogging. There is, of course, the major difference that I have to stand up there live before people, talk in real-time, and hopefully sound somewhat intelligent and knowledgeable. Urrgh.
I have been turning the idea of a seminar around in my head for a while now. I think there is a lot of misinformation and many misconceptions about buying a home. I know I didn't fully understand the home-buying process until I got into the business, which was WELL after I bought my first house, and I consider myself a fairly educated and informed person. There is also a lot of publicly available housing data out there, but many individuals may not know how to sift through and analyze that data. We all know buying a house is a major personal and financial commitment. But I don't want this seminar to be too high-brow or theoretical. My idea is to arm people with practical information to help them navigate the buying process. You need to understand the basic outlines of the transaction, what the hurdles and obstacles can be along the way, and how to find knowledgeable experts in the various areas - Realtor, lender, inspector, title insurance provider, etc. - to assist you.
So, for anyone out there that is thinking about buying a first home, or even if you've bought before but wouldn't mind a refresher course, feel free to show up next Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at 1610 Grove Avenue, Unit 2. There is a Facebook event page, which you should be able to locate by searching my name, "Melissa Savenko." There is no need to RSVP, you can just show up if your schedule allows. You are welcome to bring a friend, neighbor, or work colleague. There is free parking in the rear of the building, accessible through the alley on Vine, between Hanover and Grove Avenues. Constructive criticism will be welcome, and indeed, encouraged. But please, be gentle. This will be the first time I've tried this, so I'm a bit nervous.
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