Home Ownership

You do not currently have the Adobe Flash player installed. Click Here to download and install.

Life Stages: Home Ownership

Many complex issues are involved when buying, refinancing or improving a home. Take the right steps to be an educated consumer, and you’ll be sitting pretty in your dream home.

First-time homebuyer credit documentation requirements: Claiming the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit on your 2009 tax return might mean a larger refund but it can seem complex. Are you confused about the documentation requirements? Here are five tips to clarify the documentation requirements....
The tax advantages of home ownership: If you own your own home, there are some significant tax advantages that can make the prospect more affordable. As a result of the uncertain economy, the federal government has also recently extended a popular tax credit through June of this year...
Seven important facts about claiming the First-Time Homebuyer Credit: If you purchased a home in 2009 or early 2010, you may be eligible to claim the First-Time Homebuyer Credit, whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a long-time resident purchasing a new home. Here are seven things the IRS wants you to know...
Home ownership: are you ready?: The purchase of a first home is an exciting time in anyone’s life. It’s also a large financial undertaking, a fact that leaves many people wondering whether they’re prepared for this big step. The Ohio Society of CPAs suggests you answer these...
Ten Facts about the First-Time Homebuyer Credit: Many taxpayers who purchase a home this year will qualify for an $8,000 federal tax credit. The refundable first-time homebuyer credit is a major tax provision in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. But time is running out to...
Five facts about the home office deduction: With technology making it easier than ever for people to operate a business out of their house, many taxpayers may be able to take a home office deduction when filing their 2009 federal tax return next year. Here are five important things the IRS...
Tips for lowering your mortgage payments: Many people are struggling to pay their home loan bills as a result of the bad economy. Don’t despair, however, if you are concerned about falling behind on payments, according to The Ohio Society of CPAs. There may be options available to you...
Is a reverse mortgage right for you?: Reverse mortgages have become a popular option for seniors who would like to reap some of the benefits of the equity they have built up in their homes. However, it’s important to be aware of both the advantages and drawbacks to these loans. The...
Dealing with debt collectors: It’s not uncommon to fall behind on debt payments, particularly in a troubled economy. If you have missed payments on your mortgage, credit card or other outstanding debt, you may hear from a debt collector some time in the near future, if you...
7 things you should know when selling your home: People who sell their home may be able to exclude the gain from their income. Here are seven things every homeowner should know if they sold, or plan to sell their house. Amount of exclusion. When you have gain from the sale of your home, you may...
Qualifying for a mortgage in a tough economy: Getting a mortgage has become increasingly challenging during recent months. One recent survey showed that 67% of those who applied for a mortgage found it more difficult. Although banks now may have stricter lending rules, it is still possible...
Preparing your home for sale: Between reluctant buyers and a tightening up of bank lending, many people have found in recent months that it’s a tough time to be selling a home. All is not lost, however. There are several steps you can take to make your home more attractive to...
Steps to protect your finances from a recession: With unemployment soaring, foreclosures are at record levels and Americans having trouble paying off loans. What can you do to protect your finances?