NAHB to host first 'Rally for Homeownership' in Tampa

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), local home builders associations, state lawmakers, business and community leaders and current and future home buyers are joining together to "Rally for Homeownership" in Tampa, Fla., on July 11.

One of a series of rallies planned for swing states around the country through October, the event will send a message to elected leaders that Americans value homeownership because it strengthens the economy and local businesses, creates jobs and provides much-needed tax revenue for state and local governments.

Local economies have suffered from the slowdown in home construction, and home buyers and home owners are struggling to find affordable mortgage loans that could help them avoid default and foreclosure.

To address these problems, rally attendees will sign petitions asking elected officials to:
· Protect the mortgage interest deduction;
· Guarantee credit-worthy consumers and small businesses the opportunity to obtain mortgages and loans; and
· Resolve the foreclosure crisis

Speakers will include Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Commission Chairmen Ken Hagen, among other influential community leaders. The event is sponsored by the Tampa Bay Home Builders Association, the Florida Home Builders Association and NAHB.

“We want to bring greater attention to the underlying issues affecting homeowners and the housing industry…” said Barry Rutenberg, NAHB chairman and a home builder from Gainesville, Fla. “We need to make sure our elected representatives understand our industry and its contribution to our communities and the economy.”

The “Rally for Homeownership” will be held from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in Joe Chillura Courthouse Square in downtown Tampa.

For more information, to register, or to sign the petition, click here.