Bringing the dream of homeownership within reach
As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed legislation that grants a tax credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers.

Here is more information about how the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream.

You've made the decision to buy or sell property, now let an expert handle the rest! When dealing with what is quite possibly your largest asset, you want to enlist the help of someone who can provide the expertise you need - a REALTOR®.

The Basics: 2009 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit
Tax Credit Can Be Used on Closing Costs
How To Get The Tax Credit
Homebuyer Tax Credit Brochure: The Details
 

 

Purchasing a Home or Property
When purchasing a home or property, a REALTOR® can help you determine what you can afford and shows you only those properties that meet your criteria. A REALTOR® can explain alternative mortgage financing programs.

In addition to knowing the local money market, a REALTOR® can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when applying for a loan. Already familiar with current real estate values, real estate taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, a REALTOR® may also be able to respond to your questions about local zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy. A REALTOR® can research your housing needs in advance through a Multiple Listing Service even if you are locating to another city.

A REALTOR® can provide you with a checklist to serve as a reminder of some things you should look for in order to make a wise buying decision.

10 Steps to Home Ownership

Selling a Home or Property
A REALTOR® can free a seller from the time, effort and details involving the sale of the property. They can establish the fair market value and can advise when seller financing might be in your best interest. With an interest in bringing both buyer and seller together, a REALTOR® can help negotiate a satisfactory agreement between the parties. Before the first showing and beyond the final sale, you'll get the expertise and service you look for in a real estate professional who knows how to sell your home or property.

A REALTOR® does a lot of homework in order to sell your home or property. The property is listed, ads are placed, inquiries are handled and appointments for showings are arranged with your convenience and best interest in mind. With the aid of a Multiple Listing Service, a REALTOR® can list a home or property and work with other REALTORS® to assure a wider range of prospective buyers.

How-to Guide for selling your home

Continuing Education: What do those designations mean?
By hiring a REALTOR®, you have secured someone who is committed to continuing education, ethics, and professionalism. In addition to following the strict Code of Ethics, many REALTORS® hold one ore more professional designations - the letters behind their name. Designations acknowledge experience and advanced expertise in various real estate sectors. For more on designations, visit the National Association of REALTORS®.

REALTOR® Designations