This tax season can change your life 

by Andy Jansky & Maribel Maldonado

Homeownership is a dream that many will be able to make a reality this tax season.

Did you know?

There are lots of low and no down payment finance programs available that can help homebuyers like you purchase a home with as little as about $500 out of pocket?  From 100% financing with USDA (in approved areas) and VA to down-payment assistance programs and low down-payment financing with FHA. 

Written by: Elizabeth Porter

Tax time is here!  If you bought a home before December 31, 2011 there are several opportunities to maximize deductions and get money back when you file your taxes. 

The difference for homeowners doing their taxes for the first time compared to when they were renters is usually claiming an "itemized deduction" versus the "standard" deduction. 

A tax professional can always give you the best advice but here are a few pointers to get you started. 

Clean up your credit

by Carla Hill

More than ever having a healthy credit score is important. It may mean the difference between securing a home loan or not. Don't let old habits or debts stand in your way of taking advantage of historically low interest rates and great deals on housing.

Don't be an identity theft victim. Avoid online phishing

Written by: Brian McMaster

If you are anything like me, you enjoy a good day of fishing; a nice day out on the water taking in the Florida sun and bringing in a big catch. Sadly in the world of information protection, there are some scam artists who are beginning to give one of my favorite past times a bad name. If this hasn't happened to you yet,  it may soon, and believe me, you don't want to fall for this bait.