www.NorCalHomeLocator.com

Good news for home buyers! Governor Schwarzenegger signs $10,000 homebuyer tax credit legislation making a move to encourage Californian first time homebuyers and new construction purchasers to buy homes. I urge anyone looking at property ownership to call their tax accountant to understand how this bill will affect them. Read more http://gov.ca.gov/press-release/14712/

As of March 31^st the Federal Reserve will stop buying mortgages from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Why should you care? It means that banks will have to raise interest rates on the mortgages they originate in order to attract private investors, rather than a guaranteed buyer. Get all the info here: http://www.philly.com/philly/business/personal_finance/20100317_Program_s_end_to_affect_interest_rates.html

Extended until Dec 31, 2010, first time home buyers who lose their jobs due to layoffs may be eligible to receive up to $1500 a month for up to 6 mos to help pay their mortgage.  A qualified co-buyer can also participate in C.A.R.’s (Calif Assoc of Realtors) Housing Affordability Fund Mortgage Protection Program & receive $750 a month for up to 6mos. This free protection program received $1 million from C.A.R.’s & an additional $420,000 from N.A.R.’s (National Assoc) housing affordability funds & are available until the funds run out. Contact your Realtor for an application.