If your search to purchase a home for the first time had you in a flabbergasted state
to hastily make a choice from what's available on the market... guess what? GOOD NEWS!! The deadline date for qualifying for the tax credit awarded to home buyers has been prolonged!
Agents and buyers can both cease from holding their breath... a bit, for Congress has extended AND expanded the tax credit for qualifying buyers. The official last day for filing (income) taxes with the IRS is April 15Th, 2010. The official last day to have a written binding purchase contract for a home is April 30Th, 2010. As long as the house closes by July 1, 2010, the credit can be taken.
If you are a CURRENT homeowner, and will buy a new home between November 7, 2009 and April 30,
2010, a tax credit benefit of $3250 or $6500.00 (depending upon your filing status) has been made available for you also! This is EXCEPTIONAL news for homeowners who have used their principal residence for 5 of the prior 8 years consecutively.
BEST NEWS OF ALL?? THE TAX CREDIT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PAID BACK!!
Confused? Do not fret. The National Association of Realtors, has a more thorough explanation at their website. A helpful chart denoting the distinction between the old tax credit rules and the new extended tax credit has been issued by Governors Affairs Division and can be accessed here.
We encourage you to contact your local REALTOR® to acquire personalized information tailored to your needs. To start your search for available homes in the South Suburban or Chicago-land Area, click the Rice Property Management logo below.

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"
Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, Illinois, has agents that work with first time home buyers seeking homes in Illinois and Indiana. Give us a call at 708-862-7423
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Diane,
I think you did a great job of explaining the extension and expansion.
Have a great weekend!