You can get your tax credit now
by MARTY KRAMER
consumer columnist
 The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is making it possible to monetize the $8,000 tax credit available to first-time homebuyers. Big whoop, right? What does that even mean? Read more
How big is Texas real estate?
By David S. Jones
INSIGHT FROM ONE OF THE EXPERTS
AT THE TEXAS REAL ESTATE CENTER
 Texas’ size is the stuff of legend. The Internet Movie Database catalogs more than 2,100 films under the keyword “Texas.” Among them is the 1956 classic starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean. The title says it all. Giant. Read more
Converting your home to a rental? The rules have changed
by tom Kelly
investment columnist
 This year, many Texas families have put major purchases and cash outlays on hold, waiting for more positive economic signs – or at least an upward, consistent move in the stock market – to make big-ticket decisions. Real estate investments still make sense, although some of the rules have changed. Read more
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Options abound for those who want to own a home, but who might be strapped for cash when it comes to the downpayment.