It’s Tuesday, January 12, 2010 and the weather in Bellingham, WA is cloudy, but warm! The Bellingham Herald tells us that the ski area at Mt. Baker has been closed because of rain.

• You have owned a home for five consecutive years (out of the past eight years). This home must have been your primary residence.
• You purchase a different home as your primary residence. This home’s purchase price cannot exceed $800,000. If it does, you are not eligible for any portion of the credit.
• You do not need to sell your former primary residence. You may lease it, sell it or give it away.
• Your income does not exceed $125,000 filing individually or $225,000, married filing jointly. Even if you do make more, you may be eligible for a smaller credit.
• You must purchase the home sometime from November 7, 2009 to April 30, 2010. You must have a signed contract by April 30, 2010. You get an additional 60 days to close financing - or until July 1, 2010.
• You must be 18 years of age or older.
• If you are an active service member and work outside of the United States there are special considerations for you - check for details. We recommend you check with your tax advisor to discuss all the benefits of home ownership and the deductions you will qualify for.