HOORAY!!

After two weeks of delay, the Senate last night (11/2/2009) cleared the way to pass a seven month extension and expansion of the tax credit for homebuyers.  By an 85 to 2 roll call vote, the Senate voted to cut off debate on a package of measures that includes the homebuyer credit, making it virtually certain that the legislation will reach President Obama for his signature this week.

The homebuyer tax credit, due to expire in 28 days, would be extended through April 30 of next year.  First-time buyers who are in process of making a purchased would not need to worry about qualifying for the $8,000 credit if they close after the November 30 deadline.

For the first time, the legislation cleared last night makes move-up buyers as well as first-time buyers would be eligible for a credit.  The $8,000 maximum first-timer credit will continue and will now available to couples with income up to $225,000, a nearly $55,000 increase above the level in existing law.  A new $6,500 maximum credit would also be available to move-up homeowners who have lived in their current residence for five of the prior eight years.

To take advantage of this new program, please don't hesitate to call me at 860-539-5373 or email carlguild@prudentialct.com

This blog is going to be all about Real Estate in Connecticut. News, Updates, Market Trends, Local Events, and anything else I feel inclined to post!

First a little about me. I was born in Hartford, Connecticut December 27th, 1979. I grew up in Portland, located in the Connecticut River Valley. At the age of 26 I decided to turn my interest in Real Estate into my career. I have my Mother to thank for convincing me to take the Real Estate Principles & Practices class.

After that class I became a part-time Real Estate Agent for about 6 months, before finally taking the leap into becoming a full-time agent. The market at that time was not good by any means. Unfortunately I missed the hay-days of 2002 - 2005, so I have never really known what a "good" market is. Conversely, that has helped me to great lengths into becoming the hard-working agent I am today.

I have continued my education in everyway possible. I have all sorts of designations like e-Pro, EcoBroker, Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), e-Certifications, etc.. And I finally decided to go back and take additional education to get my Broker's License.

I currently hold my license with Prudential CT Realty, which I have found to be the best Real Estate company in the State. I chose them because of their advanced technology and because the office I work from is filled with wonderful people who are a joy to work with everyday. I appreciate you visiting and hope you bookmark or subscribe to this blog. I can assure you it will be a fun creative outlet for me, and hopefully it will be informative for the readers as well!

(East Hampton, CT)

The May Belltown Senior Club trip to Foxwoods Casino will be Thursday May 21.

The cost of $16 covers the round trip bus ride, Keno chances and free buffet. The bus leaves Shaws parking lot, 11 East High Street at 8AM and leaves Foxwoods at 3PM

To reserve your seat, call 860-267-4906 or pay at the East Hampton, CT Senior Center. Seats must be purchased in advance!

The Ladies Aid Society of the Second Congregational Church, 52 Middle Haddam Road, Middle Haddam, CT, will have their third annual Chicken Cordon Bleu Supper, Saturday May 16th, from 5-7PM.

The menu will be chicken cordon bleu for adults and chicken fingers for children, baked potato, baby carrots, tossed salad, roll, dessert, coffee, tea or punch.

Adults $10 and $5 for children under 10. The church is handicap accessible. Proceeds to benefit ongoing projects.

(Portland, CT)

A memorial scholarship has been established in honor of James Frances Rich, a former teacher at Portland High School in Portland, CT. The $1000 scholarship will be awrded annually to a graduating senior who shares Rich's passion for the field of eductaion.

The winning student will receive the scholarship, at the Monday, June 4th, awards ceremony. Donations can be made to the Jane Frances Rich Scholarship fund by mailing checks to Portland High School, ATTN: Rose Mazzarella, 95 High Street, Portland CT 06480.

(Marlborough, CT)

Marlborough Health Care Center will host a free Estate Planning Seminar, presented by Attorney Michael J. Keenan, Tuesday, May 19th from 5-6:30 pm.

The information provided will address frequently asked questions and documents that are needed for succesful estate planning. The public is invited to attend and refreshments will be served.

Marlborough Health Care Center is located at 85 Stage Harbor Road. Call 860-295-9531 to RSVP, which is encouraged, but not required.

Mary Pellin will host a Family Bingo Night for families in the Fellowship Hall at First Congregational Church of Portland CT, 554 Main Street on Saturday, May 16, from 6:30 - 8 PM, with doors opening at 6pm.

Everyone starts out with one card but if you bring in a canned food item to be donated to the Portland CT Food Bank that equals and extra card which means more of a chance to win a small prize.

The hours Mary will spend on this project go toward her Girl Scout Gold Award. ALl are welcome to attend!