For many, the path to homeownership can feel overwhelming and out of reach, but the Home Buyer’s Fair, hosted by Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. (AHSTI), aims to change that.
“Many people walk into the fair thinking they’re years away from owning a home, but once they learn about down payment assistance programs, credit counseling, and local financing options, they realize it’s more within reach than they thought,” said Myra L. Martinez, AHSTI chief operating officer.
Set for June 21, 2025, at the McAllen Convention Center, the Home Buyer’s Fair is a free event offering valuable resources for first-time homebuyers and current homeowners looking to upgrade. “The fair provides a one-stop shop where prospective buyers — whether first-time or move-up — can connect with lenders, realtors, home inspectors, and other essential service providers,” Martinez said.
AHSTI has been a leader in affordable housing since the 70s. “Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life by providing affordable housing and related services to eligible families,” Martinez said. “Our mission is rooted in improving substandard housing conditions and helping families achieve their dream of homeownership at an affordable price.”
The Home Buyer’s Fair is designed to demystify the home-buying process for residents in the Valley, especially as market conditions continue to challenge many residents. “With rising housing costs, affordability is a major concern,” Martinez said. “The fair introduces residents to programs that offer down payment assistance, affordable loan options, and energy-efficient home solutions.”
What truly sets this event apart is its strong educational focus — helping families learn about and understand every step of the process. “The fair features bilingual seminars on various topics involving homebuying such as mortgage lending 101, how to choose a builder, and more critical topics, helping them make informed decisions,” Martinez said.
The Home Buyer’s Fair doesn’t just benefit individuals — it strengthens entire communities. By promoting financial literacy, homeownership education, and access to affordable housing resources, the event plays a key role in stabilizing neighborhoods and supporting long-term economic growth. Additionally, exhibitors and sponsors — from local businesses to nonprofit organizations — view the fair as an opportunity to give back and invest in the future of their community. This year’s event includes Diamond Sponsors such as PNC Bank and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.
AHSTI’s commitment is clear — their work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Through events like the Home Buyer’s Fair, the folks at AHSTI are changing lives by opening the doors to homeownership for families across the Rio Grande Valley.
For more information or to register for the event, visit thehomebuyersfair.org.
