The convergence of historically high housing affordability, the lowest mortgage interest rates in 40 years and an $8,000 tax credit has created an excellent environment for purchasing a home.

To help North Texas consumers evaluate their opportunities in today’s market, Virginia Cook, Realtors will present a series of Home Buyer Seminars in 2009.

“The well informed consumer has an advantage in today’s market” says Virginia Cook, CEO of Virginia Cook, Realtors. “That means having a thorough understanding of the purchasing process and their own personal buying power.”

The one-hour program is free and led by an experienced loan officer and Realtor, who discuss how to find, buy and finance a home. Specific topics covered include current loan programs and tax credits available at the federal and state levels, including the $8,000 tax credit available to first-time buyers.

For this tax credit program, the IRS defines a first-time home buyer as someone who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. The tax credit does not have to be repaid and is available for homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

Attendees also receive a handbook and an approved loan application package with disclosures to review before they decide to meet with a loan officer and Realtor. The guide includes a flow chart that illustrates in an easy-to-follow format the steps required to complete a home purchase.

“These seminars are totally focused on empowering potential buyers to be confident consumers, knowledgeable and prepared to buy a home with a true understanding of their potential choices,” says Sheila Rice, executive vice president of Virginia Cook, Realtors. “The hour spent in the seminar can make a tremendous difference when it comes to making one of the most important investments of their life.”

For more information about Virginia Cook, Realtors Home Buyers Seminars, call Barbara Meager at 972.596.1500 or use the form below to register for the one nearest you.