The following is a press release:

The Tallahassee Lender's Consortium (TLC) along with Leon County and State Representative Alan Williams are hosting the 2010 Homebuyer Showcase at the North Florida Fairgrounds at 441 Paul Russell road Saturday, March 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 o.m.

The event is free for consumers and matches interested homebuyers with providers of affordable housing and other housing services.

"Affordable homeownership provides a benefit to low income families as well as the community in which we live," states Representative Alan Williams. "The showcase is an excellent opportunity for the community to personally engage and interact with industry experts to provide financial tools to aid them in finding and buying a home. We have a responsibility to make sure that all Americans not only dream the dream, but achieve the dream of ownership.This is timely given the beginning of the phasing out of the first time home buyer tax credit. I am excited to be able to take part in this local event and look forward to meeting those in attendance."

"The Homebuyer Showcase gives our future first time homebuyers a head start on learning about the various programs available to help them achieve the American dream," says Libby Lane, Executive director, Tallahassee Lender's Consortium.

Local area Realtors, lenders, builders and other housing providers will be available to educate consumers about homeownership programs, such as the $8,000 first time homebuyer tax credit.

Other activities include:

- Free tour of homes leaving every hour from the fairgrounds beginning at 10:30 a.m. to view affordable homes.
-Loan pre-qualifications will be provided by local lenders
- Homebuyer workshop that will begin at 10:30 a.m.
-Helpful information provided by home builders, home inspectors, real estate professionals, insurance provides and other affordable housing specialists
- Photos and plans of area homes for sale
- Free parking and admission
- Kids activity corner

For more information on the 201 Homebuyer Showcase call 850-222-6609 or www.tallahasseelenders.org