Even single parents have a chance in this marketplace. In some parts of the country, you can purchase a  three-bedroom single family house for less than $150,000.

To be eligible for the federal tax credits—up to $8,000 for qualified first-timers and up to $6,500 for certain repeat buyers—houses must be under contract by April 30, with settlement by June 30, 2010.

With those deadlines in sight, some real estate agents say they are relishing their first busy days in months.

For some buyers, a tax credit is an added perk in an already-friendly market with good inventory and low mortgage rates.

Non profit organizations are another source of down payment assistance for some people.  Some  state loan program that may  provide money up front for  closing costs or maintenance on the house.

The tax credit is creating  flurry of activity  noticeable in areas with a strong inventory of homes affordable to young families.

For repeat buyer, the first-time-buyer credit is  an added bonus.

The Habitat affiliate will explain the application process and provide information on the availability, size and cost of Habitat homes in your area.

Habitat affiliates will select “partner families” to become Habitat homeowners. Partner families are always selected based on their:

- Level of need

- Willingness to become partners in the program

- Ability to repay the no-profit, no-interest loan

Habitat for Humanity follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection. Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing partner families.

Some of the questions to ask might be

Is your home in a census tract with high median home values and larger or newer homes ?

Are your neighbors doing the same ?

Did you purchase property your home   within the past three years?

Is your property a smaller older property in areas where there has not been a dramatic run-up in property appreciation?

Property taxes come in a lump sum that comes twice a year. Other kinds of taxes are more hidden so you don’t feel the pain.

If you are curious about the current value of your home, contact a local Realtor who knows the market well, and who can provide you with adequate information to make your decision.