Join the North County Times and a panel of esteemed real estate analysts for a free forum open to the public. We will address the following questions: Is now the best time to buy a home? What should I do if I am underwater on my mortgage? How has the recent turmoil on Wall Street changed the local housing market?

Confirmed speakers are Kelly Cunningham, economist, San Diego Institute; Dave Hopkins, senior loan officer, Rancho Financial; Jim Klinge, real estate agent and blogger, Klinge Realty; and Lori Staehling, president, San Diego Association of Realtors. The forum will include a data presentation and a question-and-answer session so you can get responses to your biggest concerns.

The session will start at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Escondido Public Library, 239 S. Kalmia in Escondido. To reserve a seat, call business reporter Zach Fox at (760) 740-5412.