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Get ready to change your TVs if they are not digital.

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Advantage

On February 17, 2009 if your TV service comes from "rabbit ears" or an antannae on the roof you'll be without TV.  All U.S. households with those services will have to switch to digital service unless they purchase a converter box.  Millions of converter box coupons have been asked for from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.  There can be two $40 coupons given per household and they can be used at retail outlets such as Best Buy, Office Depot, Circuit City, RadioShack, Sears, Target and Wal-Mart.  Some brands will reportedly sell for $39.99.

If you have cable TV or satellite TV you will not be affected.  For information you can visit www.dtv2009.gov .

That is less than one year off and you know how fast time flies.

Roxanne Biggleston
Crye*Leike Real Estate Leaders, Inc. - Searcy, AR

Barbara,

I don't know anyone who has a TV antennae anymore...thanks for the information. I wondered what it was all about so I'll check it out.

Roxanne Biggleston

Mar 12, 2008 09:18 AM
James Downing - Metro DC Houses Team REALTORS®, CRS, GRI, ABR,MRP, MilRes
Real Living | At Home - Washington, DC
When Looking to Buy or Sell - Make the Right Move
I haven't seen Rabbit ears in years!  Although I know my Uncle and Aunt have an old TV they use in their Motorhome when they winter in Florida.  I suppose they will need an upgrade! 
Mar 12, 2008 02:37 PM
Barbara S. Duncan
RE/MAX Advantage - Searcy, AR
GRI, e-PRO, Executive Broker, Searcy AR
Roxanne, they are out there somewhere because so many people asked for these checks to get the upgrades.  Cable is expensive.  I wish I could make my husband use rabbit ears!  But then I'd have no cable for my computer!
Mar 12, 2008 02:46 PM
Barbara S. Duncan
RE/MAX Advantage - Searcy, AR
GRI, e-PRO, Executive Broker, Searcy AR

James, your aunt and uncle may be a little cash-strapped after buying that huge motor home so maybe you could surprise them with one of these vouchers!  And think what the gas down there will cost!  LOL

Mar 12, 2008 02:48 PM
Vicente A. Martinez
Prudential Douglas Elliman Licensed Real Estate Salesperson - Woodhaven, NY
Realtor, Brooklyn - Long Island - Queens Homes
Hi Barbara. I heard of the change that's coming. However, I don't think many people use these antennas anymore. Do they?
Mar 12, 2008 06:26 PM
Dick Betts
TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE - The Villages, FL
REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
You better start watching your rearview mirror!  I have worked my way up to 3rd place in the state and I have my eyes on you!  No not really I am working on my position in the "Real Estate Trainer" group which I am 14th and aiming to get in the top 10.
Mar 12, 2008 06:29 PM
Barbara S. Duncan
RE/MAX Advantage - Searcy, AR
GRI, e-PRO, Executive Broker, Searcy AR
Mr. Betts, you really have been on a run!  You've certainly made the field crowded for me.  Everyone in my town will soon be on this blog.  Best wishes on your way up!
Mar 13, 2008 01:20 AM
Larry DeGroat
Realty Professionals, Inc. - Searcy, AR
ABR, CRS, e-PRO, GRI in Searcy
I still have the antenna, ha ha I know you think I am teckie and all that but that has nothing to do with tv.  I feel paying the cable and satellite companies $40-60 per month is a waste of money when you could be using your time on better things.  Have fun with your kids, spouse or time just for yourself.  I like the outside and I ocassionally get hooked on a tv show then I let what I really like to do go by the wayside.  That's enough of my soapbox.  I CHOOSE not to have cable or satellite.
Mar 14, 2008 12:17 AM
Barbara S. Duncan
RE/MAX Advantage - Searcy, AR
GRI, e-PRO, Executive Broker, Searcy AR
Larry, you are behind time on expense.  I have to pay the cable company over $100 a month for my husband's TV addiction and my computer addition.  But I admire your parsimony!
Mar 14, 2008 12:59 AM