News - Get into the North Housing and Home Improvement Fair - Get into the North Housing and Home Improvement Fair

    In the midst of this challenging housing market; neighborhoods and service providers have made an ongoing commitment to improving the quality of housing and housing resources to Camden Community residents. For its fourth consecutive year, the North Housing and Home Improvement Fair will be held on Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at North High School. 

    New this year will be free lead testing for children under the age of six performed by the Sustainable Resources Center. The production of lead paint was banned in 1978, yet older homes may still have lead paint, which poses a health risk to young children.  Testing is encouraged for children under six years of age. 

    Additionally, in the aftermath of the foreclosure wave experienced last year, vacant and bank-owned homes exist in our communities. A special seminar will be presented on buying a foreclosed home that will speak to sources of funds to assist with the purchase of vacant homes. In addition to the recently approved federal tax credit for home purchases, other sources of funding include individual neighborhood incentives and the soon to be launched Minneapolis Advantage Program. 

    Other planned seminar topics include: Reducing Utility Bills, Green Remodeling, What is a Land Trust and First Time Homebuyers. As was the case in prior years, local contractors will be present to answer questions and possibly schedule an estimate. March and April are a good time to arrange for contractors to do the work. If you wait until the weather warms up in May or June before calling them, they may be booked.   Representatives of various financial institutions will be present to review loan options and explain grant programs. Visit www.northhousingfair.com.