2026 Real Estate Expo: Financial Literacy Summit at City College
Sat, Jul 11, 1:30 PMFrom The Network - Black Urban Social & Professional Connections
## *2026 Real Estate Expo: A Financial Literacy Summit*
## Located at The City College of New York (The Great Hall)
## A collaborative effort presented by: Harlem Congregations For Community Improvement Inc, 500 Men Organization, NY Women's Chamber of Commerce, KEE Path Foundation, Harlem Community Development Corporation, Neighborhood Housing Services New York City Inc. & RB the Realtor:
Join us for an empowering Real Estate Expo focused on essential financial skills that can shape your financial future. This is designed for both new home buyers and seasoned investors, featuring vendor tables offering crucial information and mastermind seminars tailored to equip you with the knowledge needed for successful property purchase and maintenance. Join us for an empowering summit focused on essential financial skills to shape your future, covering topics such as credit establishment, repair, downpayment assistance, grants, property buying process, effective budgeting, and preparation for significant investments like single-family or multifamily properties.
**Take advantage of multiple masterminds throughout the day, break out sessions, vendor tables and ON SITE PREAPPROVALS!**
#### **FREE BREAKFAST & LUNCH provided!**
**Event Highlights:**
1. **Home Buying 101:** Participants will learn the fundamentals of the homebuying process, including understanding mortgage options, navigating property searches, and evaluating financial readiness. This comprehensive workshop will empower attendees with essential knowledge and strategies to confidently embark on their journey to homeownership.
2. **Building a Team 101**: In the session on building a team to support property purchases, attendees will learn about assembling a network of professionals such as real estate agents, mortgage brokers, attorneys, and inspectors to guide them through the property buying process. Expert speakers will provide insights into the roles of each team member and how to collaborate effectively to ensure a smooth and successful property acquisition journey.
3. \*\*\*Building Strong Credit: \*\*\*Foundations and Repair
Unlock the keys to establishing and nurturing strong credit profiles. Explore foundational principles for building credit and effective strategies for repairing credit scores, paving the way for financial prosperity.
4. ***Leveraging Business Credit for Property Acquisition:***
Discover how to harness the power of business credit to facilitate property purchases and real estate investments. Learn strategies to leverage business credit effectively to unlock opportunities for property acquisition.
5. ***Accessing Grants and Down Payment Assistance for Property Purchases:***
Explore avenues for accessing grants and down payment assistance programs to facilitate property purchases. Gain insights into navigating the landscape of financial assistance options available for aspiring property owners.
6. ***Credit Readiness for Personal and Business Ventures:***
Delve into the nuances of credit readiness, both for personal financial endeavors and business ventures. Gain a comprehensive understanding of how credit impacts your financial journey and strategies to enhance credit readiness for achieving your goals.
7. ***Mastering Budgeting Techniques for Financial Empowerment:***
Equip yourself with indispensable budgeting techniques to take charge of your financial well-being. Learn practical strategies for effective budget management, enabling you to allocate resources wisely and achieve financial milestones.
8. ***Preparing for Multifamily Property Ownership:***
Dreaming of owning multifamily properties? Explore the essential steps for financial preparedness. From meticulous down payment planning to ensuring loan readiness, discover how to navigate the path to multifamily property ownership with confidence and clarity.
9. **Preparing for Single Family Ownership:** In the session on preparing for single-family ownership, attendees will learn essential steps for financial readiness, including budgeting techniques and down payment planning. They will also gain insights into navigating the home buying process and understanding the responsibilities of property ownership.
10. **Learn about FREE Money available to help you purchase a property:** Discover how to access free money through grants and down payment assistance programs specifically designed to help you purchase a property in New York. Learn about the various options available and how to navigate the process to maximize your benefits and achieve your homeownership goals.
11. ***Wealth and Asset Protection:*** Gain invaluable insights into protecting your wealth and assets in the realm of real estate investment. Join us as we delve into essential strategies and legal considerations for safeguarding your financial interests. Our featured attorney will provide expert guidance on navigating the intricacies of wealth protection, covering topics such as legal structures, risk management, and asset preservation techniques. Don't miss this opportunity to fortify your financial foundation and secure your path to long-term prosperity.
12. **Converting a Single Family to a Multifamily:** attendees will learn the step-by-step process and legal considerations involved in transforming single-family properties into multifamily units, exploring zoning regulations and renovation strategies tailored to New York City's unique real estate landscape. Gain insights into maximizing property value and rental income potential through effective conversion strategies and navigating regulatory hurdles for successful multifamily property development in the city.
13. **Preparing Taxes for Ownership 101:** participants will learn essential tax strategies and regulations relevant to property ownership, including deductions, credits, and tax implications. This seminar will provide practical guidance on how to navigate tax responsibilities effectively as property owners, ensuring financial compliance and maximizing tax benefits.
14. **Landlording 101:** participants will learn essential strategies for effective property management, including tenant screening, lease agreements, maintenance, and financial management. Gain insights into maximizing rental income, minimizing vacancies, and fostering positive landlord-tenant relationships to achieve long-term success in multifamily real estate investing.
15. **Learn about Property Inspections and Maintenance:** In the session on Property Inspections and Maintenance, participants will gain practical knowledge on conducting thorough property inspections to identify potential issues and maintenance needs. They will also learn essential maintenance strategies to ensure the longevity and value of their real estate investments.
16\. \*\*Budgeting 101:\*\*participants will learn essential budgeting techniques tailored specifically for aspiring homeowners\, covering topics such as creating a realistic home buying budget\, managing monthly expenses\, and saving strategies to achieve their property ownership goals\. This session will provide practical insights and actionable tips to help individuals effectively manage their finances and navigate the path to successful home ownership\.
17. **Title Insurance:** participants will learn about the importance of title insurance in protecting their property rights and financial investment. They will gain insights into how title insurance works, common issues that can arise, and how to ensure a smooth and secure real estate transaction.
18. **Teen MasterMind:** A session dedicated to providing exposure to tennagers on how to get started in real estate and the ulimited possibilities of a career in Real Estate.
19. **Real Estate Best Practices:** participants will learn about overview provides essential best practices for success in real estate, covering topics such as ethical business conduct, client relationship management, market analysis, and professional development, client Relations /Networking, Marketing / Branding, contract / negotiation skills and a blueprint for success in real estate as a professional.
20. **Introduction to Real Estate Development:** This workshop will provide an overview of the real estate development process, covering key stages such as site selection, financing, project planning, construction, and property management to help participants understand how to successfully bring a development project to completion.
21. **How to Fix & Flip a House:** This workshop will provide a step-by-step introduction to fixing and flipping houses, along with an in-depth look at the **BRRRR strategy** (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat), equipping attendees with the knowledge to maximize returns on real estate investments.
**Event Details:**
📅 Date: 7/11/26
⏰ Time: 9am
📍 Location: City College (The Great Hall)
160 Convent Avenue New York, NY 10031
#### ***Check in is at 8:30am***
**Featured Speakers :**
**RB The Realtor**
A multifamily investor & landlord that realized there was a need to help our community understand the importance of creating generational wealth through the acquisition of real estate. Therefore, I became a New York State licensed realtor to be of service to people in their efforts to buy, sell and invest in real estate for almost 20 years.
My experience and passion for helping others lends to a level of dedication and support towards achieving your real estate goals that is comparable to none. I have spent years giving back to the community through educating others about the home ownership process and how to effectively manage your property once you become an owner.
I provide real estate coaching for aspiring realtors, investors and consult with current and future owners on how to produce a profitable property. Having great relationships with fellow leaders in the real estate industry allows me to provide resources to make any real estate transaction easy for all. I am happy to be of service for all your real estate needs!
**Dionte Chantel**
Dionte Chantel White is a real estate developer of affordable & workforce housing for residential and multifamily projects in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Missouri and beyond. Dionte Chantel is a founding principal at Beauty For Ashes Developers LLC. She is also a founding principal of DC Essex Investments LLC, a woman-owned investment firm & development firm based in New Jersey. Dionte Chantel has completed 5 new construction multifamily homes in the Greater Newark area in 2023 and has 200+ units in predevelopment construction pipeline throughout USA. With over 12+ years of real estate experience, Dionte Chantel is known for specializing in development, residential, commercial and investment real estate. Dionte Chantel’s ability to successfully leverage her business relationships, acquire off market real estate opportunities and expertise with real estate redevelopment has been the key to her successful real estate career. Dionte Chantel is committed to normalizing Women and minority developers in real estate development.
**Jared Smith**
Jared Smith is a Licensed Architect in New York & Connecticut with more than 15 years of professional experience. His background includes historic restoration, exterior building design & implementation for water prevention, civic/institutional upgrades, K-12 educational capital improvements and residential design/space planning for projects with construction budgets of $30-40mil. Jared differs from other professionals having years in the trenches as a local expediter and onsite construction administrator allowing for on-the-ground realistic problem solving skills. Currently founder and principal architect at Architect Owl PLLC, a full service architectural and design firm located in Westchester County, NY serving areas between Orange County to the North, NYC to the South and Fairfield County in Connecticut to the East. At present, he specializes in major residential renovations, conversion and new building developments. He is a NYC Minority Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) and member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA).
**Jerrod Delaine**
Jerrod Delaine is an alumnus of Florida A & M University's School of Architecture and Environmental Technology, where he earned both a Bachelor’s Degree and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture. He further expanded his expertise with a Master of Science from the Schack Institute of Real Estate at New York University.
Jerrod had an eight-year tenure as Director of Development at Carthage Real Estate Advisors, a Harlem-based development firm. Jerrod has emerged as a recognized authority in urban housing policy. He is a real estate developer and investor in addition to the founder and CEO of The Delaine Companies, a firm committed to improving communities.
**Shedah 3**
Rashedah Henriques also known as Shedah3, is a dedicated educator, owner of credit repair company Fresh Start United and Teacher of Good Credit Great Perks course. Rashedah's goal is to teach the masses the benefits of good credit and to reap the great perks that it provides.
Rashedah, graduated from Marshall University, with a bachelors in Speech Pathology and a Master’s degree Special Education. Teaching has long been a passion of hers, whether it's teaching 7th graders how to calculate percent of change or teaching adults how to maximize their credit for their business, you can often catch her on IG live teaching or providing some gems.
Rashedah has over $100,000 in personal credit and leverages this to pay her monthly bills and to travel for little to nothing. She has taught her students how to do the same and grow their limits to run plays on their own.
Rashedah’s motto is “Give a man a fish he eats for a day, teach a man how to fish he eats for a lifetime.” Her goal is to provide the skills of how to fish so that you can feed your own table.
**Lasheca Lewis ESQ**
Lasheca Lewis, Esq. obtained her Juris Doctorate from Touro Law Center. While attending law school, Lasheca worked as a Community Relations Director for the NYS Assembly. After passing the New York State bar, Lasheca began working in the private sector. Lasheca’s experience inspired her to open Lawsheca, PLLC. Lasheca uses her comprehensive legal background and diverse experiences to provide efficient and cost- effective legal services. . Lawsheca, PLLC helps clients with real estate, estate planning and contractual matters.
**Sabine Franco ESQ**
Sabine is the Founder and Managing Attorney of The Ambitious Legacy Firm P.C., is a
visionary leader dedicated to guiding individuals and families towards securing their futures. With over a decade of experience, Sabine specializes in creating enduring legacies. As the driving force behind her team, she ensured that clients received comprehensive support in establishing businesses, safeguarding properties, and planning for the future.
Recently, Sabine has expanded her impact by launching STPL LLC, a consulting practice where she provides expert advice on business, life, and wealth strategy. Through STPL LLC, she empowers clients to achieve their ambitious legacies by offering tailored solutions that align with their goals and aspirations.
Sabine's commitment to excellence and holistic guidance sets her apart in the legal and consulting arenas. Recognized as a "Super Lawyers" rising star for 2022, a “Super Lawyer” in 2023, and 40 under 40 Honoree by Blank Slate Media, Sabine has gained widespread acclaim for her expertise. She has been featured on prominent platforms such as The Wall Street Journal, Yahoo Finance, BET, Essence, "The Breakfast Club" (New York's #1 radio show) and the "Earn Your Leisure" podcast, solidifying her reputation as a trusted authority in her field. Sabine's legal prowess extends beyond her business acumen in Real Estate, Business, and Wealth Preservation Strategy; she is also the Amazon bestselling Author of You’re Richer Than You Think: A Step by Step Guide to building a lasting financial legacy for your family.”
**Pedro Hernandez**
Pedro Hernandez: Senior Manager, HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Program at HCDC. My previous professional experience is in commercial lending and financial advising. I utilize my experience in financial services and lending along with housing counseling to help families repair and build their credit and save towards their home purchasing goals. I hold a Bachelor of Arts focused in interpersonal and intercultural Communications from the State University of New York at New Paltz. My mantra is "treat each client with white glove service".
**Dr. Malcolm Punter**
Malcolm A. Punter earned and was awarded the Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.), holds a Master of Science Law (JSM) degree, a M.B.A in Management & Operations, and a B.S. in Behavioral Science. Dr. Punter is a member of the Metro New York National Black MBA Association, 100 Black Men of New York, Inc., serves as the Secretary of the Adam Clayton Powell Jr Memorial Committee, Inc., as the Vice President of the Black Agency Executives in NYC as well as served on many boards for other civic, housing and fraternal organizations Dr. Punter has distinguished himself as a change agent in the business of Real Estate and as a consultant to investors in distressed markets in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. As President & CEO for Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) he provides day to day oversight for all aspects of HCCI and manages the financial and operational sustainability of over $ 550 million in real estate assets comprised of 90 mixed?use commercial buildings, a 70 unit commercial leasing portfolio compromised of 60,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Harlem and a myriad of social service programs. Dr. Punter is a NYS Licensed Real Estate Broker and markets diverse housing to qualified buyers and sellers primarily in the New York City. Dr. Punter drives the affordable housing initiatives of HCCI which currently has several new construction projects in production including 135 units of senior housing, 250 cooperative homeownership units, and currently over affordable rental housing preservation and new construction deals in New York, New Jersey, and Georgia. Prior to joining HCCI, Dr. Punter worked in the affordable housing industry on other Central Harlem real estate development projects monitored by NYC HPD, Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. and LISC, the current partners of HCCI in housing development. Dr. Punter created and managed his own family real estate investments with holdings in NY, PA and CT. Dr. Punter has worked as a mentor for youth with various religious and civic organizations in the Harlem community, and lectures on business, economics, and entrepreneurship. He teaches courses at Universities such as the College of New Rochelle
**Russell Grey**
**Onaje Barnes**
**Deborah Innocent ESQ**
The Principal Attorney, Deborah Innocent, earned her Bachelors in Economics and Finance at St. John’s University, and then worked for Internal Revenue Service in the Small Business and Individuals Sector. She then earned her law degree at Thomas Cooley Law School and studied in Tax L.L.M program at New York Law School. She was an Associate at Andrew G. Neal, P.C. dealing with complex Real Estate Investor transactions from 2009 to 2013. In 2013, she partnered up with two other lawyers and formed VIP Law Offices, where she had a criminal law partner and another partner who practiced family law. In 2016 she formed Innocent Law, P.C.
Innocent Law, P.C. is a boutique law firm providing Legal, Real Estate and Tax services. Some of our specialized areas are the following: Commercial and Residential Real Estate Transactions; Loss Mitigation Negotiations (Loan Modifications, Business Incorporation, Planning, Contracts and Sales; Estate Planning; Elder Law; Medicaid Planning; Wealth Planning; and Asset Protection Trust. We represent both individuals and business, including but not limited to first time buyers, investors, seniors and condominium boards.
Innocent Law P.C. has hosted and participated in many events educating the public on the importance of Estate Planning, especially with real property transactions. In addition, Deborah Innocent is a coauthor of a blog geared towards Estate Planning with our of counsel, Hani Sarj, see: [https://www.willstrustsestates.info/author/](https://www.willstrustsestates.info/author/ "https://www.willstrustsestates.info/author/").
Deborah Innocent is licensed as an attorney in New York and New Jersey (only real estate transactions).
Deborah Innocent is also a member of New York Women’s Bar Association, New York Bar Association, several not-for-profit organizations and a proud Chaplain of Healing Hearts Chaplaincy.
**Welby Accely**
In 2004 he started investing in real estate and by 2008 he was wiped out for the first time. By 2012, he had been wiped out a total of 3 times. This is why he is so passionate about being brutally honest regarding thisjourney of being a real estate investor. As a new investor, he was lied to by so-called experienced investors, manipulated by real estate agents andlenders, and taken advantage of by contractors because of my lack of knowledge and know-how.Things didn’t change for me, until I started truly betting on myself by empowering myself with the right information and applying it strategically. In the last 5 years, he have flipped over 130 properties. Personally he has amassed an active 8 figure rental portfolio that cash flows a high net 5 figures monthly. Within the last 2 years, he has worked to help hundreds of mentees build their real estate investing foundations.Learn from his mistakes! You don’t don’t have to suffer through this real estate business in the manner that he did. Let him walk you through my proven strategies that I apply daily, in the real world, to help you resolveyour specific concerns.
**Shantel Batson**
Shantel, the owner of AAAS Electric, is a master licensed electrician with 21 years of experience. She specializes in commercial and residential services, including violation removals, new installations, repairs, and renovations.
**Alyah Horsford - Sidberry**
Alyah Horsford-Sidberry is a 4th generation Harlemite. The entrepreneurial roots, in the case of Alyah Horsford-Sidberry, cut very deep: a few generations back to her grandfather’s real estate business. However, it is not only the entrepreneurial spirit which “runs in the family”, it is her grandfather’s values that galvanized her lifelong political activism, and which also serve as the foundation for her companies’ mission and business values today. Alyah's family history of strong ties to the community were her building blocks, and like her grandfather, she approaches any project from a broad social perspective where company expansion is as important as the improvement of the communities where this work is done. She's a Investor, Developer and serial entrepreneur.
**Curtis Archer**
Curtis Archer’s first job in 1989 for the New York City Office of Business Development, which later became the Department of Business Services, would ignite a thriving career serving four governors and leading him to his current role as President of the Harlem Community Development Corporation.
Along the way, Archer was recruited to oversee complex economic development projects from one New York City borough to another. In 1992 he accepted a position with the New York City Economic Development Corporation, where he reached the level of senior project manager and was responsible for moving several retail projects ahead in his old South Bronx neighborhood.
Recognized for his hard work, former Borough President Claire Shulman hired him as the City Business Assistant Program’s Director of Economic Development and African American community liaison. Archer then became Director of Small Business Development for the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone in 1997, but shortly thereafter was hired as the Executive Director of Rockaway Development and Revitalization Corporation, where he was successful in promoting the revitalization of the peninsula's economic base and neighborhoods.
Since January 2006, Curtis has served as President of the Harlem Community Development Corporation, where he sees his role as essential in enhancing the economic climate for both businesses and residents in the Greater Harlem community.
**Stephanie Smith**
Stephanie is the Founder of Wake of Investments Academy where she teaches others how to FIND, FUND, and FIX homes as well as the Owner and Operator of Philly Made Construction, a Licensed and Insured Black and Female Owned General Contracting Company. In addition to these two established companies, Stephanie is a pillar within her community wearing many other hats from being a Licensed Real Estate Agent, AirBnB Host, Landlord, and Investor.
**Dan Borrero**
Daniel Borrero Jr, co-owner of USA Land Ventures, epitomizes resilience and success. Determined from a young age to chart his own path, he has built a multi-million-dollar real estate empire through dedication and unwavering focus. With a mission to inspire future generations, Daniel's story is a testament to the power of dreams and determination.
Daniel Borrero Jr, embodies the essence of a consummate professional who has thrived through entrepreneurship in the realm of real estate investing. His journey began with a childhood dream of self-employment, leading to the establishment of his first business in 1985 and ultimately culminating in the creation of a multi-million-dollar real estate investing organization that started in 1989.
Over the years, Daniel has orchestrated the acquisition of over 2,000 properties and emerged as an industry leader known for his adept negotiation skills. His expertise spans various areas, from long-term wealth acquisition through real estate purchases to property management and resale strategies.
Looking towards the future, Daniel's ultimate aim is to impart his wealth of knowledge in real estate investing to his children, empowering them to leave their mark on the industry. Embracing Victor Hugo's words - "There’s nothing like a dream to create a future" - Daniel personifies resilience and determination, pursuing his aspirations with unwavering resolve from a young age.
**Rev. Dr. Charles Butler**
Rev. Dr. Charles Butler Vice President of Equitable Development Rev. Dr. Charles Butler, Vice President of Equitable Development, at Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc (HCCI) has over twelve years experience as a certified Housing Urban Development (HUD) Housing Counselor and Program Director for homeownership programs with HCCI. He has assisted close to 2000 low and moderate income individuals and families become first time homeowners. Dr. Butler has conducted financial literacy and home buying seminars in local schools, churches, and a variety of community organizations throughout the New York City. Some of the local partners include the Harlem Children’s Zone, Riverside Church, Community Boards 9 & 10, and the New York Public Library for Science, Industry & Business Library (SIBL). His home buying seminars has attracted regional and national attention. Dr. Butler holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from Howard University. He earned a Masters Degree in Counselor Education from the University of Pittsburgh. In addition he has earned a Masters Degree in Divinity and most recently a Doctorate in Ministry from Alliance Theological Seminary. Dr. Butler also serves as a Board of Directors for the New York Mortgage Coalition; the New York State Coalition for Excellence in Home Buyer Education/Home Smart; and the St. Marks Federal Credit Union.
**Nia Randall**
After a decade-long career in corporate marketing, Nia Randall decided to pursue her passion for real estate investment. She co-founded Black Girls Buy Buildings (BGBB), a collective focused on educating and advocating for women of color through real estate. In addition to education, BGBB focuses on rebuilding communities and creating housing opportunities "for us, by us," aiming to empower and uplift through property ownership and development.
Before real estate investing, Nia worked in TV & Film Digital Marketing for the global entertainment company Warner Bros. After starting her brand, she transitioned to the tech industry, where she helped drive engagement and growth for brands like Yahoo. Currently, she works in Content Marketing and Operations for Amazon Music, leading numerous global high-impact campaigns and projects.
Nia's diverse background and commitment to community development highlight her unique approach to real estate investing. She continues to leverage her extensive marketing expertise and project management skills to make a positive impact in the real estate industry.
**Malaki Sims**
Malaki is a seasoned real estate developer, CPA, and licensed electricity broker with over 20 years of experience in public, private, and governmental accounting. He possesses a deep understanding of financial management and strategic planning across diverse industries.Since 2011, Malaki has focused on developing residential projects and affordable housing in Houston, Texas. He manages his family's Opportunity Zone fund and property management company, building houses for his family's portfolio without any out-of-pocket costs. An expert on Opportunity Zone development, Malaki has been featured on numerous podcasts, including Bigger Pockets.
#### **FREE BREAKFAST & LUNCH**
#### **FREE GIVEAWAYS & MORE**
**Why Attend?**
This event is your chance to equip yourself with the financial knowledge needed to secure a prosperous future. Network with fellow attendees, engage with expert speakers, and gain valuable information that you can implement immediately.
Whether you're a seasoned investor, a 1st time homebuyer, or simply someone eager to improve their financial literacy, this event is tailored to you.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into credit building, budgeting, and single family , Co-op, Condo and multifamily property ownership. Your real estate journey starts here!
Secure your spot today and embark on a journey toward accomplishing your ownership goals.
***Feel free to connect by clicking on my virtual business card www.RB10k.com***
### **Special Thank You To Our Sponsors:**
***Don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with industry experts.***
**Click the link below to secure your FREE tickets today:**
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-real-estate-expo-financial-literacy-summit-at-city-college-tickets-1980932825406?aff=oddtdtcreator
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## **We can't wait to see you there!**
Reach out to me today to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards financial prosperity. Let's turn your dreams of real estate investment into a reality.
Schedule a FREE consultation at the link below:
www.RB10k.com
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