Real Estate Blog

A quick look-

The tax credit is equal to the lesser of 5 percent of the purchase price or $10,000. It is not a refundable tax credit like the federal tax credit but must be taken in equal installments over three consecutive years to offset state taxes due.

Home buyers taking the credit will be required to live in the home as their principal residence for at least two years or forfeit the credit by repaying it to the state. Buyers also must be at least 18 years old and be unrelated to the seller.

First come-first served eligible taxpayers must close escrow between May 1, 2010 and Dec. 31, 2010, or after December 31, 2010 and before August 1, 2011, pursuant to an enforceable contract executed on or before December 31, 2010.