IR-2009-108, Nov. 24, 2009

WASHINGTON — A new law that went into effect Nov. 6 extends the first-time homebuyer credit five months and expands the eligibility requirements for purchasers.

The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 extends the deadline for qualifying home purchases from Nov. 30, 2009, to April 30, 2010. Additionally, if a buyer enters into a binding contract by April 30, 2010, the buyer has until June 30, 2010, to settle on the purchase.

The maximum credit amount remains at $8,000 for a first-time homebuyer –– that is, a buyer who has not owned a primary residence during the three years up to the date of purchase.

But the new law also provides a “long-time resident” credit of up to $6,500 to others who do not qualify as “first-time homebuyers.” To qualify this way, a buyer must have owned and used the same home as a principal or primary residence for at least five consecutive years of the eight-year period ending on the date of purchase of a new home as a primary residence.

For all qualifying purchases in 2010, taxpayers have the option of claiming the credit on either their 2009 or 2010 tax returns.

With interest rates still very low, these tax credits and home prices at the most affordable they have been in years this is a very good time to buy!

Buying a home is sometimes a complex undertaking. Hiring me, a Realtor, will help save you time and money. Together, we will determine your needs and wants and find or sell your home. I promise to make your real estate experience stress-free and agreeable. I possess a wide range of real estate experience and guarantee to find or sell your home in a timely and professional manner. I will make sure that you get the most out of your next real estate transaction by taking advantage of cutting edge technology, products and services.

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