AHA home-buying workshop January 23 in Neptune

If you think that a house of your own is out of financial reach, if the many steps toward ownership mystify you, or if the potential for discrimination has you worried, then consider a trip to the Neptune Public Library on January 23.

The Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) stages a homebuyers' workshop, under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD),. from 9 AM until 5 PM at the library on Neptune Boulevard.

AHA maintains offices in Neptune, Atlantic Highlands, Eatontown and Freehold, tending a broad swath of services including search assistance, Superstorm recovery aid, foreclosure counseling, and home energy subsidies.

According to the AHA website, the group has developed about 400 homes in Ocean, Monmouth and Middlesex Counties since 1991, works with municipalities to meet affordable housing obligations, and keeps a running database of rentals categorized as affordable.

Eight banking organizations supply funds, along with foundations and government agencies. Partner groups include the NAACP, Asbury Park STARS, Catholic Charities, Interfaith Neighbors, Manna House, the Ladacin Network and the Mental Health Association.

Workshop topics include grant programs and fair housing guidelines; credit and budgeting; real estate transactions; closing costs, attorney fees, homeowner's insurance; and the cost of maintaining a home.

Registration is recommended, 732-389-2958, or visit the AHA web page for more details.