If you haven't heard, the recently approved stimulus package had a wonderful provision for anyone buying their first home; An $8000 tax credit!

Here are the things to know about the $8000 Tax Credit in a nutshell:

• The tax credit is for homebuyers buying their first home only.
  
• The money does not have to be repaid.
  
• The credit is capped at 10 percent of the home's purchase price with a maximum of $8,000.
  
• Homes must be purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. (Note not the credit is NOT available until the end of the year. Plan accordingly!)
  
• Income caps to apply...Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.
  
• Additional questions on the $8000 can be answered by CLICKING HERE!

Now combine this with the Twin Cities highest affordability index for homes on record according to the Minneapolis Board of REALTORS® and first time buyers have an amazing opportunity! Get the skinny on the affordability index here.

So how does a first time buyer in Anoka County make the most of this opportunity?

Start researching now...not homes, check out professionals. Looking at homes may be fun and exciting but it is not the first step in buying a first home, finding a professional REALTOR® is!

Having a professional agent to guide you through the buying process doesn't cost a penny!

As a professional Anoka County REALTOR®, I assist people in buying and selling homes in Blaine, Ham Lake, Forest Lake, Lino Lakes and Andover everyday! I can help spot that great deal quickly before it gets away. I can also point out homes on the market that may not be the best choice for a first time buyer. It all comes down to expertise!

One of my most important jobs is assisting the first time buyer to locate financing through a professional dedicated loan officer. My mortgage contacts work with my clients to help them find the best loan depending on their individual needs and situations. As a team, we work hard to be certain that our home buyers don't write an offer on a home that they cannot afford. Buyers need to feel comfortable that they will be able to make the payment on their dream home...not just that first month but next year and the year after that.

Once preapproved the fun can really begin...Looking for a good solid foreclosure in Anoka County? Want a picture perfect home in Coon Rapids? Want a bit of land in Columbus or Lino Lakes? Looking for a detached townhome in Blaine? I help buyers define their dreams and pinpoint a handful of homes that meet your specific needs.

With the loan preapproval and home criteria is firmly established, the viewing of the houses can begin. With me as their professional agent at their side, my clients confidently view homes they can afford and would be proud to consider their home. After visiting a several...usually around 10-12, I assist first time buyers through the paperwork process as we write up the offer on their home.

Now that the offer is accepted, I assist the new buyers to find qualified professionals to inspect the home as outline in the purchase agreement and handle the process of closing the home in a timely manner. My first time buyers never feel abandoned or alone. We are a team until they get the keys to their dream home!

If you are buying or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet, Homebuyers Success Packet or sign up for Listingbook Twin Cities Home Search. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Buying a Home? Check out my new HOME BUYER'S BLOG!

Copyright 2009 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

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