RISMEDIA, October 5, 2009—Those interested in taking advantage of the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit must realize that the much-publicized November 30th deadline is for the closing date (i.e., the day keys are officially handed over). However, the list of customary closing requirements- ranging from mortgage approvals and appraisals to home inspections- can typically take 45 to 60 days between the contract signing and the closing date.
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate advises that any eligible first-time homebuyers – anyone who hasn’t purchased a home in the last three years- who wish to take advantage of the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit need a sense of great urgency and must select a home, have their offer accepted and be under contract by mid-October at the very latest in order to safely close prior to the expiration of the tax credit.
“First-time homebuyers have a lot to consider when choosing a home, not the least of which is the fact that the November 30th deadline they may have circled on their calendars is effectively an October 15th deadline – and even that is cutting it very close,” said Sherry Chris, president and CEO of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. “No one should rush the decision of buying a home, but if the tax credit is motivating their decision, they should be very aware of their timing.”
Currently the National Association of Realtors(R) and other industry organizations are lobbying Congress to extend the Nov. 30th deadline.
For more information, visit www.bhgrealestate.com.
