Area Information

Mortgage

    AmeriDreamŽ — Through down payment assistance and community redevelopment programs, AmeriDream, Inc. expands affordable housing opportunities not only to first-time homebuyers but to all low- and moderate-income individuals and families who wish to achieve homeownership. Additionally, as a non-profit organization, AmeriDream works to promote the value of homeownership as a strong foundation that supports lasting communities and individual prosperity.

    The Nehemiah ProgramŽ — The Nehemiah ProgramŽ is- The nation’s most experienced privately funded downpayment assistance program. Since 1997, we have assisted over families working with more than lenders nationwide to provide more than million in downpayment gift funds.

    YAHOO! report on Mortgage Rates — See the current mortgage rates as reported by Yahoo!

Moving and Relocation

    Mapquest Nationwide Mapping System — Ranked within the top 10 most powerful U.S. brands on the Internet by NetRatings and as the number one mapping site and number one travel site by comScore Media Metrix, MapQuest.com is the world’s leader in interactive location-based services. MapQuest.com receives more than 26 million visitors every month and serves up over 10 million maps and directions each day.

    USPS Movers Guide

Real Estate

Schools

    Illinois State Board of Education — The board sets educational policies and guidelines for public and private schools, preschool through grade 12, as well as for adult and vocational education. It analyzes the aims, needs and requirements of education and recommends legislation to the General Assembly for the benefit of the more than 2 million school children in Illinois.

Tax Information

    IRS - Homeowner Tax Deductions — Itemized Deductions/Standard Deductions: 6. Real Estate (Taxes, Mortgage Interest, Points, Other Property Expenses)

    IRS Form 521 - Moving Expenses — You may be able to deduct moving expenses whether you are self-employed or an employee. Your expenses generally must be related to starting work at your new job location. However, certain retirees and survivors may qualify to claim the deduction even if they are not starting work at a new job location. See Who Can Deduct Moving Expenses.

    IRS Form 530 - First Time Homeowners — This publication provides tax information for first-time homeowners. Your first home may be a house, condominium, cooperative apartment, mobile home, houseboat, or house trailer.