Consumer Information
First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit
The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has extended the tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence. It also authorized a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified repeat home buyers. Did you know that some homebuyers will actually be able to monetize the first-time homebuyer tax credit and use it for a down payment? The Department of Housing and Urban Development has issued a guidance letter on how this can be done. Click here to read more about monetizing this credit or visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com.
Suspect Fraud
Check with the state before it's too late! The Washington
Department of Revenue's Suspect Fraud site allows you to find out if a
business is registered, report unlicensed businesses, report other
types of fraud and more.
Before Hiring a Contractor
If you are a consumer interested in having work done by a
contractor, this pamphlet can help you by:
- Explaining how the Washington State contractor registration program works.
- Describing how the contractor registration law protects you, the consumer.
- Outlining the requirements for contractors.
Consumers and businesses need to learn about prospective contractors before contracts are signed, and before money is paid. If you have questions about a contractor or need more information about the contractor registration law, call the Department of Labor and Industries on their state-wide toll-free contractor registration information line: 1 (800) 647-0982. Internet users may access the same information at www.lni.wa.gov/contractors/contractor.asp.
It is a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any unresolved issues regarding a contractor. In the Tri-Cities area, you may call 1 (800) 248-2356.
Wondering if now is the time to buy?
Here are 5
great reasons why you shouldn't wait to buy a home.