Pathways to Affordable Homeownership An Affordable Housing Workshop

Pathways to Affordable Homeownership
An Affordable Housing Workshop in collaboration with Action Zone

Event Description

For many individuals and families, homeownership feels increasingly out of reach. Rising housing costs, limited inventory, and uncertainty about financing can make the process overwhelming.

This workshop brings together local housing experts to help you understand the real pathways to affordable homeownership available in the Tampa Bay area. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, exploring financial readiness, or simply trying to understand what programs exist, this session will provide practical guidance and direct access to organizations working to make homeownership more attainable.

Participants will hear from professionals working directly in affordable housing, homeownership programs, and mortgage lending. Each presenter will walk through the programs, resources, and financial tools available to help individuals and families move toward owning a home.

This session is designed to be practical and informative, giving attendees a clearer understanding of the steps involved in preparing for homeownership and the support systems available in the community.

Light meal provided for in-person attendees.

Agenda

5:30 PM – Arrival & Check-In

6:00 PM – Welcome & Introduction

6:15 PM – Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Programs
Bella DuPont
Outreach Specialist / Financial Coach
Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside – Hillsborough

Overview of Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program and how qualified families can purchase affordable homes through partnership, financial education, and community support.

6:45 PM – First-Time Homebuyer Education & Affordable Housing Programs
Angel Santiago
Marketing and Program Specialist
Tampa Bay Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS)

Introduction to first-time homebuyer education programs, housing counseling services, and resources designed to help individuals prepare financially and structurally for homeownership.

7:15 PM – Mortgage Products & VA Loan Options
Phillip Lorraine
AVP, Mortgage Loan Officer
Seacoast Bank

Understanding mortgage options available to first-time buyers, including conventional loans, special financing programs, and VA loan opportunities for veterans and military families.

7:45 PM – Q&A and Networking

Opportunity for attendees to ask questions and connect directly with presenters and local housing resources.

Key Takeaways

• A clearer understanding of the affordable homeownership programs available in the Tampa Bay area
• Insight into financial readiness and first-time homebuyer education resources
• Knowledge of mortgage options and loan products that may support your homeownership journey
• Direct connections to organizations that can guide you through the homebuying process

Whether you are just beginning to explore homeownership or preparing to take the next step, this workshop will help you better understand the resources available and how to move forward with confidence.

About Action Zone

Action Zone helps the military community and aspiring entrepreneurs learn the business of running a business, ensuring economic success post-service through entrepreneurship. We equip individuals with the knowledge, network, tools, and opportunities needed to build sustainable businesses and economic independence.

If you’re interested in getting involved by sharing your expertise or supporting our programs, please contact [email protected].

Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay – Hillsborough partners with individuals and families to make affordable homeownership possible through education, financial preparation, and community collaboration. The organization helps qualified homebuyers purchase safe, affordable homes through Habitat’s homeownership program, which combines financial coaching, homeowner education, and sweat equity. By working alongside volunteers, donors, and community partners, Habitat helps families build stability, generational wealth, and stronger neighborhoods across Hillsborough County.

Venue Host

Special thanks to our venue host, the Hillsborough County Entrepreneur Collaborative Center (ECC), for supporting entrepreneurship and economic mobility in the Tampa Bay region.

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Host or Publisher Action Zone