As your real estate consultant in Greater Vancouver, my mission is to make you and your family happy and satisfied with your real estate needs.

Like a good business partner, I will work hard to accomplish the purchase and/or sale of your property, while always maintaining professionalism and loyalty to you, even sometimes advising against a purchase or sale.

Like a good friend, I will stand by you every step of the process, giving you the personal attention you deserve and need.

My Japanese-style detailed care and service will not disappoint you; after all, the purchase or sale of your property is one of the most important decisions you will make.

Sincerely yours,

Debbie Matsuura
Your Friend, Your Dream Maker, Your Realtor

Sutton-Centre Realty, Burnaby, British Columbia

Property Transfer Tax

Have you ever been confused by BC Government information about the Property Transfer Tax (PTT)? If you answered yer, you're not alone.
To help home buyers understand the tax and how to calculate their payment, the Ministry of Finance now provides plain language documents on all aspects of the PTT, from explaining what the tax is to calculating an exemption and filing a PTT return.

For more information visit: www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/individuals/property_taxes/Property_transfer_tax/ptt.htm

Tax credits for home buyers and home owners

Home renovation tax credit

Under a new temporary renovation tax credit, home owners can claim a 15 percent non-refundable tax credit for eligible expenditures over $1,000 but not more than $10,000, for a maximum credit of $1,350 ($9,000 �~ 15%). The credit is available for eligible costs of work performed or goods acquired affter January 27, 2009 and before February 1, 2010 (unless the expenditure is made under an agreement in place on or before January 27, 2009).

Family members (spouses or common-law partners and their children under 18) are subject to a single limit based on their pooled expenditures. The credit is only available for a dwelling that is eligible to be the family's principal residence or that of one or more of their other family members.

Expenditures will qualify for the credit if they are incurred in relation to a renovation or alteration of an eligible dwelling, provided the renovation is of an enduring nature and is integral to the dwelling. Examples include new furnaces, windows and decks. Eligible expenditures include labour costs, professional fees, building materials, fixtures, equipment rentals and permits.

First-time home buyers' credit

First-time home buyers who acquire a qualifying home after January 27, 2009 may be entitled to claim a new non-refundable tax credit up to $5,000 and worth up to $750 ($5,000 �~ 15%).

To qualify, neither the individual nor his or her spouse or common-law partner can have owned and lived in another home in the calendar year of the new home purchase or in any of the four preceding calendar years. The credit can be claimed by either the purchaser or by his or her spouse or common-law partner.

The credit will also be available for certain home purchases by or for the benefit of an individual eligible for the disability tax credit.

Home Buyers' Plan threshold increased

The budget increases the amount that first-time home buyers can withdraw tax-free from a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to purchase or build a new home to $25,000 (up from $20,000). The new limit applies to withdrawals made after January 27, 2009.

Information is current to January 27, 2009. The information contained in this TaxNewsFlash-Canada is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Call 604-970-4477 or e-mail Debbie today to learn more about these.

First Time Home Buyer ?

First Time Home Buyer? Don't worry, Debbie will assist you step by step. Market is hot and getting hotter everyday. Don't delay to start looking for your place with Debbie. Your will receive free "First Time Buyer Information Package" at initial consultation which will provide you information you should know before you start looking for your first home.

Call 604-970-4477 or e-mail Debbie today to make an appointment to start your first easy step.

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