another reminder...

We all know that it's important to have fire and smoke detectors in our homes, and to change out the batteries at least once a year (whether they are doing that annoying chirping or not)! Unfortunately this is not always the case for CO detectors. I am always amazed at how many times I, as a Realtor, need provide new home buyers with CO detectors since they are required to be in a home at the time of sale. Often the Sellers of the home have never had a CO detector in their home. It is a very scary thing...odorless, tasteless, and invisible. There will not be a funny smell or smoke to warn you that bad things are about to happen. A few years back we here in the Greater Burlington area got a very public wake up call when several UVM students were poisoned by a malfunctioning furnace in their dorm. One of them died. Here is the story.

Recently a South Burlington family had a close call. Here is that story.

I hope that you all heed the warning and run out and get a CO detector! Now. Go.

Warm Regards,
David

Tax Credit Extension!

Do you know someone in the military who has been deployed and was unable to use the first time or step-up homebuyers tax credit? I bet they would appreciate if you let them know that if they have been away for 90 days or more they likely qualify for a one year extension to the credit! This gives them until April 30 of 2011 to put a home under contract, and until June 30 2011 to close. $8000.00 from the government! Please do not hesitate to call me with any questions you may have. You can also direct them to www.homebuyertaxcredit.com to do the quick test to see if they qualify. Happy New Year! -David

Question 9.2. One-Year Extension for “Official Extended Duty”

Qualifying members of the military or government employees who will be on “Official Extended Duty” for at least 90 days between December 31, 2008 and May 1, 2010 receive an extra year to get into contract.

As a member of the military or qualified government employee, do you expect to be able to claim the “Official Extended Duty” extension and get into contract by April 30, 2011?

Yes, I will be on Official Extended Duty during that time, and will be able to get into contract by April 30, 2011