How 'bout an Old-Fashioned Summer Vacation on Cape Cod

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I say, forget the Caribbean... Europe will wait... save Mexico for next year. If you've ever craved an old-fashioned, laid-back, lazy summer vacation, then look no further. Susan and I and our 3 kids and my brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and their 3 kids, and my other brother-in-law... well, basically our whole family have been enjoying summer vacations on the Cape for over 25 years.

The natural beauty of Cape Cod is unmatched, offering a wide variety of outdoor activities. There's lots to do... kayaking, surfing, tennis, golf, sailing, fishing, sight-seeing, bird watching, and so much more. Most of the time we just hang out at one of the wonderful beaches or freshwater lakes in Eastham. And every 4th of July we have a huge family bonfire at the National Seashore.

Don't get sucked in by consumerism this summer. Money is too tight. Spend some quality time with your family and get to know them... again. You'll be glad you did!

If you're looking for a place to stay, we highly recommend The REACH, and why wouldn't we-- it's our home away from home.

HUD Announces New Details on First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

On May 29, 2009, U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan announced that the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will allow home buyers to apply the Obama Administration's new $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit toward the purchase costs of a FHA-insured home. Donovan said that this will help stabilize the nation's housing market by stimulating home sales across the country.

The announcement detailed FHA's rules allowing state Housing Finance Agencies and certain non-profits to "monetize" up to the full amount of the tax credit (depending on the amount of the mortgage) so that borrowers can immediately apply the funds toward their down payments. Home buyers using FHA-approved lenders can apply the tax credit to their down payment in excess of 3.5 percent of appraised value or their closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. [Source: NJ Association of Realtors]