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Congress Enacts Bigger and Better

A tax credit of up to $8,000 is now available for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. Unlike the tax credit enacted in 2008, the new credit does not have to be repaid.

Learn how you can take advantage of this $8,000 tax credit to buy the home of your dreams.

First-time home buyers who purchased a principal residence on or after April 9, 2008 and before January 1, 2009 may qualify for a $7,500 tax credit. Click here for more information.

Why Use a REALTOR®

Many consumers consider selling their home directly but eventually turn to REALTORS®. Smart home sellers realize they need the expertise in pricing their home, making connections with REALTORS® working with buyers, arranging and staffing open houses, and coordinating with other professionals in the sales process.
Only about half of all real estate agents are REALTORS® -- the top half, in our not-so-humble opinion. REALTORS® work independently, for small agencies, or for large brokerages. They help people buy and sell residential or commercial properties, vacation homes, and land; they conduct appraisals; they operate in the United States and in other countries; some specialize in auctions; and others are buyer's representatives.
REALTORS® Are Experts
Eighty-five percent of sellers were assisted by a real estate agent when selling their home, according to NAR's 2007 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, and 79 percent of buyers purchased their home through a real estate agent or broker.
Why Use a REALTOR®?Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Here are 12 ways a REALTOR® will make your home buying or selling experience better.
REALTORS® Are Part of the Community
REALTORS® Work to End Housing Discrimination - during April, which is Fair Housing Month, and all year long. REALTORS® are active members of their communities.
REALTORS® Protect You
Only REALTORS® follow a Code of EthicsTo be a member of NAR and a REALTOR®, a real estate agent must abide by a set of professional principles and serve clients fairly.
Learn how the Code of Ethics affects everyday real estate practices
Specialty Mortgages: What Are the Risks and Advantages?A growing number of home buyers are deciding to use one of several new types of specialty mortgages that let them "stretch" their income so they can qualify for a larger loan. Before you decide whether a specialty mortgage is for you, read this brochure.

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Southern California Home Sales Rise in 2008

Price decreases and mounting foreclosures lure buyers back

The real estate market was almost booming in Southern California at the end of 2008, but with a difference. Sales were almost at a 2004 pace — prices, however, were at 2002 levels, as mounting foreclosures began to energize buyers.
Read More

America's post-subprime boomtowns

Home sales are making a strong comeback in these towns, as buyers search for deals in areas with good long-term prospects.

America's top 5 subprime boomtowns
1. Murrieta, Calif.
2. Woodbridge, Va.
3. Temecula, Calif.
4. Brentwood, Calif.
5. Perris, Calif.

Read more

Did you Know?

HOUSING MARKET FACT #2
Homeowners may deduct mortgage
interest and property taxes as an
expense against income.

*Housing and Economic Recovery Act, H.R. 3221