W. Chicago hosts free Realtor session Feb. 4

Area realtors are invited to West Chicago to participate in a free training session offered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority and Law Title Insurance.

The program will include information on first-time homebuyer programs, including the Smart Move Signature Mortgage which allows up to $6,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance, as well as information on navigating the title issues related to short sales and foreclosures.

The training is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 4 at the West Chicago Public Library's Meeting Room, 118 W. Washington St. It will be from 1 to approximately 4 p.m., and is intended to provide Realtors with an educational opportunity which may help them increase their business in 2011, as well as enable them to be more successful when working with short-sales or foreclosed properties.

Space is limited to 50 people and reservations are required. Contact Kathe Doremus at kmdoremus@gmail.com with any questions or to reserve space.

The Realtor training is in preparation for the West Chicago Homebuyer Fair, which is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 26 at Community High School, 326 Joliet St.

The fair focuses on the benefits of living in West Chicago and is free to anyone looking to buy a home in today's market, where a combination of record low interest rates and a substantial number of available homes make this the perfect time to be a home buyer. Workshops will be offered on topics such as current homebuyer programs available (FHA 203k, IHDA's down payment assistance programs, etc.); the importance of credit in obtaining a mortgage; and how to become a successful homeowner in today's market.

Realtors, lenders, builders, home repair services, along with community resources such as schools, park district, library, employers, and county resources, are welcome to participate in the Fair and may contact Kathe Doremus at kmdoremus@gmail.com or (630) 212-7128 for more details.