TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Dec. 10, 2009 – As part of his focus on strengthening Florida’s economy, Gov. Charlie Crist met with Florida Realtors Wednesday at the capital to discuss the state’s housing market. The governor applauded the contributions of the state’s Realtors on the consistent increase in home sales over the last year, and encouraged Realtors to continue telling homebuyers about the extended federal tax credit for buyers made available through the Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009.

“There are great opportunities right now for Floridians and newcomers to Florida to take advantage of tax breaks, bargain prices and beautiful Florida real estate,” said Gov. Crist. “I am encouraged by the continuing rise in home sales.” During the roundtable discussion, the governor emphasized his continued commitment to reducing the tax burden on the state’s homeowners and business property owners.

Roundtable participants included 2009 Florida Realtors President Cynthia Shelton of Lake Mary and President-Elect Wendell Davis of Jacksonville. Florida Real Estate Commission Chair Roger Enzor of Pensacola also joined other participants from Jupiter, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Ocala, Sarasota, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

“We’re privileged here in Florida to have a governor who is always willing to meet with everyday citizens and learn directly from them what’s important,” said 2009 Florida Realtors President Cynthia Shelton. “He is a true friend to all of us who call Florida home, and he believes — as we do — that issues of concern to Realtors are important to the quality of life we all enjoy and want to preserve in the Sunshine State.”

According to the latest housing data from Florida Realtors, existing single-family home sales in Florida have consistently increased over the last 14 months. Statewide existing home sales were up 26 percent in October 2009 compared to the previous October, while October’s statewide existing condo sales rose 33 percent compared to October 2008.

The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009

In effect since Nov. 6, 2009, the federal Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 extends the first-time homebuyer credit five months and expands the eligibility requirements to existing homeowners. The law extends the deadline for qualifying home purchases from Nov. 30, 2009, to April 30, 2010. Additionally, if a buyer enters into a binding contract by April 30, 2010, the buyer has until June 30, 2010, to close on the home purchase.

The maximum credit amount remains at $8,000 for a first-time homebuyer – that is, a buyer who has not owned a primary residence during the three years prior to the purchase. Plus, many existing homeowners may qualify for a tax credit of up to $6,500 on a home purchase.

“Florida Realtors appreciated the chance to apprise Gov. Crist of the positive momentum in the state’s housing market,” says John Sebree, vice president of public policy for Florida Realtors. “Real estate is a vital component for the state’s economy, and Realtors are on the frontlines when it comes to helping residents and business owners benefit from some great opportunities in the current marketplace.

“Now, more than ever, it’s important to preserve the state’s housing trust funds and to increase their funding, as more citizens than ever can realize their dream of homeownership and find an affordable Florida home.”

© 2009 Florida Realtors