Fred Schmidt Jr.

Passed by the House early in October was a bill extending the $8,000 home buyer tax credit next year for military, diplomatic and intelligence personnel serving overseas. This increases the likelihood that Congress will write an extension of the $8000 tax credit program into 2010 but of course there is no guarantee. Hopefully, lawmakers appreciate the tax credit program, currently slated to expire November 30, as a critical component in "saving and creating" jobs.  The $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers is scheduled to expire on December 1, 2009.  However, in order to qualify, the transaction must be closed on or before November 30th, essentially leaving first-time buyers with less than 35 days to complete the process.  At this point, this assumes a "Chinese Fire Drill" approach in order to take advantage of this program if you haven't already began the process.  While the urgency of trying to find and close on a home before the deadline may seem stressful, it doesn't have to be, unless you want it to be a... "Chinese Fire Drill".  “Yes, the tax credit is encouraging first-time homebuyers, but we’re concerned that people could miss out on this unique money-saving opportunity if they haven't anticipated the time necessary for closing,” said Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors General Manager Tom Gray.  “While every home purchase is a unique experience, we are encouraging first-time homebuyers to be under contract within the next few days in order to participate in this "soon to not likely be extended"... Chinese Fire Drill.”   Please assume your positions.