The members of the Snohomish County-Camano Association of REALTORS® are committed to giving back to the communities in which they live, raise their families and derive their incomes. We provide community service, both individually and as a group, donating money talent and time to many worthy causes. The philosophy of our Association is that as members of this community, and as real estate professionals we are on the front lines to provide affordable housing. Since there is a lack of affordable housing for those above the poverty level, there certainly is an even greater need for those under the poverty level.

The Snohomish County REALTOR® Homeless Endowment Fund was established in 1991. The fund provides rental security deposits and emergency housing vouchers to individuals and families in need of housing. Many families or individuals qualify for a rental, but need assistance with the security deposit so they can get into their new home, and who otherwise might be homeless.

The Volunteers of America Western Washington screen the tenants, set up a no interest loan and repayment plan, provide casework services and counseling. The Association, upon receiving a signed note, writes the check directly to the landlord. The tenant repays the loan on a payment plan which takes into consideration their particular financial situation. Since the fund started operating in September 1991, we have raised over $550,000 and assisted over 4000 families.

This year's event will be a little bit different The 2009 Homeless Endowment Fund Gala will be held at the Everett Train Station. It will be an elegent evening which will include; A High End Silent Auction Lip Reader Palm Reader Magician Live Band Gourmet Hors D'ourves 2 Local Wineries A Local Brewery Opportunity to win a one carat Diamond!

While the Homeless Endowment Fund Auction has been an SCCAR tradition for the past 18 years, this is the first ever SCCAR Homeless Endowment Fund Gala. Because this is a more intimate, upscale event space is limited. Make sure you reserve your tickets as soon as possible.

As Past President 2007 of this Association, I can tell you we are so proud to assist the Volunteers of America Western Washington in a worthy cause.

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit - New Information

Great news today. The IRS has revised it's Form 5405 that allows a first time homebuyer to get a tax credit for $8,000. The most important change is they can claim it on their 2008 TAXES!
That's correct, if you purchased a home in 2009 you can check a box that states you are collecting the $8,000 credit on your 2008 taxes and get the money immediately. If you have already filed your return for 2008, you can use this form to amend your return and re-submit. You will get your tax rebate in a few weeks.

The caveat, you must not have owned a home in the last three years and need to buy a home between now and December 1, 2009.

This is great news, buyers. Get that cash that you need NOW instead of waiting.

For all your real estate needs, contact me: Karen Schweinfurth, ABR, CRS, SRES, e-PRO, RE/MAX Northwest Realtors - 425-308-3669 or visit my web site for more buyer information.