By De’Lisa Moore
Special to The Truth
On Saturday, April 13, 2024, the Greater Toledo Realtist Association (GTRA) hosted a transformative event at the historic Frederick Douglass Community Association, dedicated to Building Black Wealth. The event not only focused on real estate education but also emphasized holistic well-being, with vendors selling various products and healthcare workers offering health checkups to attendees.
The event brought together community members, real estate professionals and esteemed guests, including Matt Edwards, treasurer of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, and Tonia Pace, president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated-Toledo Alumni Chapter. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration and collective action in advancing economic empowerment within Black communities.
The event commenced with a stirring rendition of the Black National Anthem by local artist Anitra Cherry, setting a tone of pride and unity for the day ahead. Guiding the program with expertise and passion was Local Realtist Board President-Elect, DeLisa Moore, from Danberry Realtors.
The event featured a series of insightful sessions led by seasoned realtists, each tackling crucial subjects surrounding homeownership, equity accumulation, and real estate investment.
The ABC’s of Home Buying: Kim Dixon, representing Howard Hanna, provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of the essential steps involved in the home buying process. From securing financing to navigating negotiations, Dixon equipped participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to embark on their homeownership journey.
I Have Equity, Now What?: Clyde Montgomery, hailing from CPG Mortgage, delved into the nuances of equity management. Montgomery guided attendees through strategic decision-making processes, ensuring they make informed choices to maximize their financial assets.
What to Do with Momma’s House?: Loreen Banks, an expert from Jewel Realty, tackled the complexities of inherited properties. With sensitivity and expertise, Banks offered guidance on navigating legal and familial considerations, empowering individuals to make sound decisions regarding their family estates.
Show Me the Money: Down Payment Assistance: Julia Lee, representing Huntington Bank, shed light on the various down payment assistance programs available to prospective homebuyers. Lee’s presentation demystified the financial barriers to homeownership, making it more accessible to a broader range of individuals and families.
Investing in Real Estate: Neaira Williams, from Danberry Realtors, inspired attendees to explore the wealth-building potential of real estate investment. With insightful strategies and practical advice, Williams encouraged participants to seize opportunities for financial growth and prosperity.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in lively discussions, exchanged valuable insights, and forged connections with like-minded individuals committed to building wealth and prosperity within the Black community.
The Building Black Wealth Day at the Frederick Douglass Community Association served as a beacon of hope and empowerment, highlighting the transformative potential of education, collaboration, and action in realizing collective dreams of economic empowerment and generational wealth. As attendees departed, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and determination, fueled by the belief that through unity and perseverance, they can create a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
