The Docksider

March 1 brought a rare blanket of snow to Bryant Lake. Now I like a winter wonderland as much as the next person, but I gotta tell you after one quick look I swam to the depths of Bryant Lake to avoid the wintry mix and cold temps.

The old saying is that “If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb.” At this rate, we should be able to count on sunny days and picnics beside the lake by the first of April. That’s not so baaaaa-a-a-a-d, is it?

- Doozy

The economic stimulus package that the President signed on February 17 will provide a tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers. There are several important things to know so that you can receive the full advantage of this opportunity.

• Only homes purchased between January 1 and December 1, 2009 are eligible.
• The tax credit does not have to be repaid.
• Is fully refundable.
• Permits state housing finance agencies to help buyers at closing by advancing the credit amount as a loan using tax-exempt bond proceeds.
• Increases the FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits to 2008 levels.

Contact Charmaine at the Bryant Lake LaGrange Sales Center for more information: toll-free 877-384-LAKE.

You can also read a clearly written summary from the National Association of Home Builders.

- Tillman