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Homeowners grants and rebates to consider

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With tax season upon us, anything that can add to a homeowner's bottom line is welcome news. The Vancouver Sun has done some leg work and compiled a list of the best grants and rebates for homeowners and property buyers. Here are my top picks:

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS' TAX CREDIT (HBTC):
This federal non-refundable income tax credit is for qualifying buyers of detached, attached, apartment condominiums, mobile homes or shares in a cooperative housing corporation. For the 2010 tax year, the maximum credit is $750. For more information: www.cra.gc.ca/hbtc

BC PROPERTY TAX DEFERMENT PROGRAMS:
Property Tax Deferment Program for Seniors. Qualifying home owners aged 55+ may be eligible to defer property taxes. Financial Hardship Property Tax Deferment Program. Qualifying low-income home owners may be eligible to defer property taxes. Property Tax Deferment Program for Families with Children. Qualifying low income home owners who financially support children under age 18 may be eligible to defer property taxes. For more information: www.sbr.gov.bc.ca and enter 'Property tax deferment' in the search box or contact your municipal tax office.

CANADA MORTGAGE AND HOUSING (CMHC) RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (RRAP) GRANTS:
This federal program provides financial aid to qualifying low-income home owners to repair substandard housing. For more information: www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/prfinas/ prfinas_001.cfm

LIVESMART BC: EFFICIENCY INCENTIVE PROGRAM:
Home owners improving the energy efficiency of their homes may qualify for cash incentives through this provincial program provided in partnership with Terasen Gas, BC Hydro, and FortisBC. For more information: www. livesmartbc.ca/rebates

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