The House voted 403-12 today to expand a popular tax credit for homebuyers. The bill, H.R. 3548, which also extends unemployment benefits and expands a tax break for money-losing businesses, will now go to the President, who plans to sign it on Friday.
First-time homebuyers have been getting tax credits of up to $8,000 since January as part of the economic stimulus package. But with that housing program scheduled to expire at the end of November, the House voted to extend it into the spring — and to expand it to many people who already own homes.
Buyers who have owned their current homes at least five years would be eligible, subject to income limits, for tax credits of up to $6,500. First-time homebuyers — or people who haven't owned homes in the previous three years — could get up to $8,000. To qualify, buyers have to sign purchase agreements before May 1 and close before July 1.
The credit is available for the purchase of principal homes costing $800,000 or less, meaning vacation homes are ineligible. The credit would be phased out for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 and for joint filers with incomes above $225,000.
Labels: 2009, 3548, 6500, 8000, first time, home buyer, housing, tax credit
