Free 90-minute workshop will help local first-time buyers learn what they need before buying a home

GRANT COUNTY, N.M. — August 4, 2025 — Grant County Housing Community Partners will host a free First-Time Homebuyer Bootcamp on August 4 in Grant County, New Mexico. The 90-minute workshop will give people a clear, practical guide to buying their first home. The event is presented with the Southwest New Mexico Council of Governments (SWNMCOG), the Silver City Regional Association of REALTORS® (SCRAR), the Copper Collaborative, and local housing and lending professionals.

The session is called "What You Need Before You Buy." It is meant to help Silver City residents understand the homebuying process and learn about programs that may help with costs. Homes in the area are often more affordable than in many other New Mexico cities, with many prices around $200,000 to $320,000.

During the bootcamp, attendees will learn about budgeting, credit, loan options, getting pre-approved, down payment help, searching for a home, making an offer, inspections, and closing. Kim Clark will lead the session with lenders Carlos Lucero and Patricia Lewis and REALTOR® Cassie Carver.

One main message is simple: buyers may not need 20% down or perfect credit to buy a home. Since Silver City qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans, some buyers may be able to buy with 0% down. FHA loans may be available with 3.5% down for buyers with credit scores of 580 or higher. Attendees will also hear about New Mexico's HomeNow program, which can provide up to $8,000 in down payment help through a forgivable or deferred second mortgage.

"The programs are out there, the local experts are here, and this workshop is a good first step," organizers said. "Buying a home in Silver City may be more possible than people think."

Attendees will take home helpful materials, including a mortgage document checklist, program information, presenter contact cards, homebuyer education details, and a free credit report guide. Presenters will also explain the HUD-approved homebuyer education courses offered through Housing New Mexico (MFA) and United Way.

About the Partners This bootcamp is a partnership between SWNMCOG, SCRAR, the Copper Collaborative, and local mortgage lenders. Together, they are helping Grant County residents learn about the steps, programs, and local resources that can help them buy their first home.

Media Contact: Kim Clark, Silver City Regional Association of REALTORS, Silver City, NM. www.Silvercityrealtors.org