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Two real estate groups will perform outreach to distressed homeowners in minority communities.

The National Association of Real Estate Brokers and PartnerFirst announced that they will form a network of certified multicultural short sale agents that will extend nationally with the aim of helping minority homeowners avoid foreclosure. NAREB is a trade organization for certified minority real estate professionals, while PartnerFirst offers agent training and certification for mortgage providers and professional groups. Their Minority Outreach Initiative will provide educational tools and financial support through mortgage providers and government agencies that are culturally diverse and inclusive.

"We are honored to get the support of NAREB in our efforts to provide communities with educational programs that are culturally sensitive, empowering homeowners to identify and pursue the best possible outcome for their situations," said PartnerFirst COO Son Nguyen.

NAREB CEO Vincent Wimbish added that the partnership will offer members agents the opportunity to add an industry-recognized short sale certification to their credentials, which will assist the group’s members as they work to "restore and revitalize communities of color."

Recently, the Center for Responsible Lending found that Latino and African-American homeowners suffered more losses as the result of a foreclosure than any other racial demographic.