Workshops can change lives—but only when done ethically. Learn how to organize foreclosure education events that build trust, credibility, and community goodwill.
1. Why Workshops Work
Face-to-face education restores trust in an industry that’s too often seen as transactional.
Homeowners facing foreclosure crave clarity and safety—not pitches.
When Realtors host free, factual, well-organized events under the KeepMyHouse.org banner, they become recognized as advocates, not agents of opportunity.
As the platform teaches:
“Foreclosure workshops aren’t about leads—they’re about leadership.”
2. What Type of Workshop to Host
Keep it educational, not promotional.
Example formats:
- “Understanding the California Foreclosure Timeline”
- “Your Rights Under the Homeowner Bill of Rights (HBOR)”
- “Options After Notice of Default: Reinstatement, Modification, or Sale”
- “How to Spot and Avoid Foreclosure Scams”
Workshops can be hosted at community centers, libraries, churches, or even online via Zoom—always under neutral branding.
3. Compliance Comes First
California is strict about how foreclosure-related events are presented.
To remain compliant under AB 2424 and Civ. Code §2945 (Foreclosure Consultant Law):
Never imply that the workshop guarantees foreclosure prevention.
Do not collect fees or require sign-ups to attend.
Clearly identify your professional role (e.g., “Licensed Realtor, not attorney”).
Provide printed disclaimers:
“Information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice.”
If your brokerage or an affiliated investor participates, disclose that relationship in writing and verbally.
4. How to Structure the Event
A balanced agenda builds credibility:
- Welcome & Introductions – 5 minutes (explain mission, disclaimers).
- Foreclosure Timeline Walkthrough – 10 minutes (use KeepMyHouse.org calendar visual).
- Rights Under HBOR & AB 2424 – 10 minutes (cite key protections).
- Options Overview – 10 minutes (loan mod, reinstatement, short sale, etc.).
- Q&A and Resource Distribution – 15 minutes (provide guides and counselor referrals).
Include HUD-approved housing counselors or legal aid guests whenever possible to reinforce neutrality.
5. Marketing the Workshop Ethically
Use language that emphasizes education over solutions.
Approved phrasing:
- “Learn your rights before the sale date.”
- “Understand the foreclosure process—no sales pitch, just information.”
- “Free community event presented by KeepMyHouse.org and local partners.”
Avoid:
- “We can stop your foreclosure!”
- “Save your home now!”
- “Guaranteed help available.”
Post flyers in community centers, not just online groups, to reach genuine homeowners in need.
6. What to Bring
- KeepMyHouse.org printed foreclosure-timeline handouts
- California HBOR summaries
- Local nonprofit and counseling contact sheets
- Sign-in sheet (optional, voluntary, with consent disclaimer)
- Refreshments — simple hospitality goes a long way toward comfort and trust
7. The Follow-Up Framework
Within 48 hours:
- Email attendees a thank-you note with PDF resources.
- Offer optional one-on-one consultations—never pressure.
- Document attendance and discussions for DRE compliance.
- Forward attendees who need help to HUD or legal partners first.
This keeps your outreach educationally pure and professionally secure.
8. Why It Builds Legacy, Not Just Leads
Workshops create ripple effects. One informed homeowner often tells five others.
Media, community leaders, and city housing departments begin recognizing the hosting Realtor as a trusted subject-matter expert—not a salesperson.
As KeepMyHouse.org says:
“Education earns the credibility marketing can’t buy.”
When Realtors become educators, they don’t just close transactions—they open understanding, dignity, and access. That’s the heart of homeowner advocacy in California.
Not sure what the next step should be?
We help homeowners and Realtors understand available options.
