LEWISTON – The combination of low mortgage interest rates, reduced home prices and an $8,000 federal tax credit for anyone purchasing a home this year is prompting interest in real estate.

For anyone interested in becoming a homeowner, hoMEworks, a nonprofit organization that promotes home-buyer education throughout Maine, will host a homebuyer fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at the Lewiston Armory, 65 Central Ave.

Admission is free, and Home Depot will be on hand to demonstrate small do-it-yourself projects for electrical and plumbing work. HoMEworks will also conduct raffles for gift cards to Hannaford and Irving, as well as additional prizes totaling more than $500.

For potential buyers looking for additional preparation and education to reach that goal, the fair is a one-stop location to get information. It will offer exhibitors, including mortgage lenders, real estate companies, nonprofit housing organizations and local, state and federal agencies that can provide expert advice and information about special programs.

The fair also features a series of “how-to” home improvement and energy-saving demonstrations, and short educational sessions.

Everyone attending will receive a homeownership “road map”- a one-page handout that directs them to experts who can help them at their particular stage, and provides information on locating a home-buyer class in their community.

Fair-goers will have the opportunity to learn about how to apply for a free credit report. Credit counselors will assist in teaching the “how-to’s” of resolving credit problems. Participants also will receive a copy of a free guide that explains how to improve their credit report, deal with debt, and avoid credit-related scams.

The goal of hoMEworks is to provide a standardized, comprehensive homeownership education program, delivered by industry professionals in a neutral environment.

For more information, call 207-626-4669, or visit the hoMEworks Web site: www.mainehomeworks.org.