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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Thousands of guests flocked the home expo this weekend, but it has finally come to an end.

While booths were breaking down on Sunday our Fact Finder team wanted to know if the economic benefits will continue.

Fact Finder talked with Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Terry McNitt and he said people will continue working on their houses year round.

In addition to all the sales that occur at the expo, he tells fact finder many people patronize local businesses they interacted with.

“The after flow of the Home Expo will go on for the full year.  People will remember the exhibitors and there will be vendors calling people who requested estimates. It has a significant impact on the local economy,” said McNitt.

McNitt told Fact Finder the Expo also serves as their largest fund raiser.

Money collected from booths and admission fees supports not only salaries, but also events such as legislative forums and the Christmas lights downtown.

This year’s Expo saw more than 5,400 visitors.

McNitt told Fact Finder that many of the vendors are already inquiring about next year or requesting an additional booth.

He said planning for next year will likely begin in November.