2010 tax credits and appliance rebates

We are rapidly approaching the end of 2010, and the dreaded tax season begins.  We have had a year full of tax credits and appliance rebates offered throughout the year, but it gets a bit confusing as to how to cash in on these enticing deals. 

If you have installed or upgraded to more energy efficient equipment for your primaryresidence, there are tax credits available for up to 30% of the cost of the item, up to $1,500.  

This tax incentive is available through the month of December, 2010 the items included are  energy saving:

  • Doors
  • Windows
  • Skylights
  • Non-solar water heaters
  • Roofs
  • Insulation
  • HVAC systems
  • Biomass stoves

In addition to the above incentives there are more energy efficient items to add to your to do list that will help reduce your tax bill. This list is available through December 31st 2016, 30% of the amount of the item with no cap as to the total cost of the improvement.
 

  • Geothermal heat pumps
  • Solar energy systems
  • Wind energy systems

There was also a rebate plan to help homeowner replace their older less energy efficient appliances to ENERGY STAR rated appliances.  Unlike the federal tax credits, the appliance rebates are distributed by each individual state. These state-run programs have been opening and closing throughout 2010, and many are still open, you must check the state map where to reside to see which items qualify and the availability of the program:

The items included in the state of Florida were:

  • Central air conditioners
  • Air source heat pumps
  • Ground source heat pumps
  • Refrigerators
  • Freezers
  • Clothes washers
  • Dishwashers
  • Room air conditioners
  • Gas tank-less water heaters

Unfortunately our stat e(Florida) program expired on November 30th, It however was able to help many upgrade their appliances, the amount of funding allocated to this program was $17,585,000.

With less than two weeks left in 2010, time is defintely running out, if you have ever thought of making any of these changes now is the time.  We wish you good luck with upcoming year, make your 2011 amazing! As always, if we can help with your buying or selling needs
please don’t hesitate to call we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

 The Florida Future Realty Team

   239-542-8521

inquiry@FloridaFutureAgents.com

Rebates available for new energy efficient HVAC systems

Many Florida home owners are thrilled to have a chance to replace their less efficient heating and air conditioning units, to an updated energy star rated model.  It could not have come at a better time for some Floridians, whose electric bills are soaring and savings accounts have been dwindling. Help has come in the form of a rebate for HVAC systems. The rebate will be a flat $1,500 given in the form of an American Express prepaid card.

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as replacing your old unit with a new one and sending off your proof of purchase.  Home owners must have a test performed on the duct work to determine whether they qualify for this rebate.  The test MUST be performed by a Florida Class 1 Rater, A Florida licensed mechanical contractor, or a recognized test a balance agent. The fee to have this test performed can be anywhere from $300 to $500.  Duct leakage can be no more than 15% to the outside,if it is shown to be more, repairs must be made at your expense or you cannot proceed with this program.   After the proper tests have been performed and passed you then can purchase and install your new system. 

The purchase and installation must be completed between Aug. 30 and Dec. 31 2010.  There is only $15 million dollars allocated to support this program, so time is of the essence. In addition to the government tax rebate many air conditioning manufacturers may also offer
rebates as well, the combination of rebates and savings in energy cost could potentially save homeowners thousands.  To qualify for this program it is essential to follow the entire process properly and return all the forms in the time frame specified. 

For more information:

Florida Energy Star Residential HVAC Rebate Program

If we can help you with any of your real estate need please don’t hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,                                                 

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Susan@susanmilner.com