DS News - Digital Archives

» FiveMinutes VISIT US ONLINE @ DSNEWS.COM with Gerardo Ascencio President of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Gerardo Ascencio knows a thing or two about homeownership, which is why his post as the newest president of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) is a good fit. Ascencio has spent more than two decades in the business helping people access their piece of the American Dream, and now he works directly with the largest minority group in the country to ensure they have access to affordable housing solutions. What do you anticipate the face of homeownership to look like in the next four years? I anticipate a more diverse homeownership community. During the 12 months ending in June 2012, Hispanic households added more than a half-million new homeowners into the market nationwide.   How can the current administration assist first-time homebuyers of color? I think access to low down payment, affordable mortgages is key. Mortgages are tougher than ever to get and some people think new regulations that are scheduled to take effect in January will make it even tougher. The Obama administration has been primarily focused on foreclosure prevention and controlling the supply of properties on the market through programs like REO-torental. We are hoping that in 2013, the administration will be equally focused on support on the demand side.   What is your organization doing to help mitigate the foreclosure rate among Latinos? NAHREP has organized a number of events that bring distressed consumers together with nonprofits and servicers that can help with a modification or a short sale, and our members have been directly involved in supporting their own local communities and customers. NAHREP supports our members by providing them with guidance and access to the decision-makers at many of the largest servicers who can facilitate a more efficient path to a positive solution.   How is NAHREP working to change the view of homeownership in the Latino community? The Latino community has shown remarkable resilience in light of the housing crisis. No demographic group has suffered more than Hispanics, but our passion and desire for homeownership has not diminished. Latinos generally pursue homeownership for the stability it creates for the family. A home is also viewed as a tangible long-term investment. These are healthy motives that will lead to long-term success. NAHREP reinforces these perspectives through its advocacy and communications with members.      Earlier this year, NAHREP presented lawmakers with policy recommendations for preserving and promoting homeownership for Latinos. Which areas are you hoping will take priority in Washington? Our advocacy plan was focused on the housing policy on a national basis. Coming off the election we are likely to see some real progress in the area of immigration reform. This will boost the housing market in many areas throughout the country. We haven't seen much movement in the secondary mortgage market, but we should see something soon, and we still believe that all firsttime buyers who receive a government-guaranteed mortgage should receive some form of housing counseling. 29

• Cover