Real estate update & then some

Okay, the $8000 First Time Homebuyer tax credit has been extended and the $6500 "move up" buyer tax credit has been implemented. They both expire on June 30, 2010. Your contract to purchase a home has to be written by April 30, 2010 and closing by June 30. There are some additional guideline changes, home prices included increased, and some income level increases, so be sure to check with your tax professional when planning to take advantage of this incentive.


The $6500 tax credit is good for any present homeowner who has purchased and lived in their existing home for 5 of the last 8 years. You do not have to be buying a more expensive or larger home to take advantage. It is the government's desire to stimulate the other portion of the housing market, instead of just first time buyers. You could actually be moving down. This is a benefit for seniors because if you've been concerned about not getting an increased amount of money for your home, here's $6500 to help you.

On another note, I've learned that Moe's doesn't give senior discounts. The management where I've been patronizing was misinformed. They do give military discounts though. Still, I'll probably be patronizing Atlanta Bread Company (Market Sq. area) more often because of this. Plus ABC has wi-fi which I happen to be using right now.

$8000 tax credit extension

Here's a link with some information about the possible extension of the $8K tax credit for first time homebuyers and the proposed $6500 credit for some move up buyers.

What Impact Will Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension Have on Housing Industry? | RISMedia

55 Now

Okay, the day has passed. I am now a bonafide senior. Went to #1 Stir Fry, ordered my lunch, asked if they had senior discounts. Nope. Should have gone to Moe's. Guess I'll go tomorrow.

Identity Theft

There's a website out there to help gauge your probability of being a victim of identity theft. It's www.myidscore.com and it is a free service. You do not have to give your social security number, but it does ask some questions to help determine your likelihood of being a target.

I've checked it. Don't know how accurate it is, but it's worth a try to see if someone could be using, or wanting to use your name.

Who Will You Patronize?

I visited the Kerry Forest Red Elephant and have now confirmed that neither restaurant give senior discounts. I'm told that Another Broken Egg at the Killearn Lakes entrance is giving senior discounts for those 50 and over.

Guess where I'm going for my meals? I wish Broken Egg was open today, but alas they are not open on Monday's. I'll have to go another day this week.

Another strike out for senior discount

Harry's Restaurant downtown in Kelman Plaza doesn't give seniors discounts. Last Wednesday evening celebrating a friend's birthday though was worth it simply because of the fantastic weather, good friends and good food.

3158 Huttersfield Circle

Reduced price on this 3 bed, 2 bath home in Huntington Woods. Sellers have 3 small children and have outgrown this home. Let's make a deal before the $8,000 tax credit is gone! Check out the listing here:

http://singleentrylisting.com/784/3158_huttersfield_circle