The U.S. Senate has voted to extend the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit and President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law today. (Read our previous posts about the credit.)

VHFA staff celebrated 25 years of service of two employees at this morning's staff meeting: Controller Tim Gutchell and Assistant Director of Homeownership Programs Jacklyn Santerre.

Congratulations, both!

A recent survey by bankrate.com revealed closing costs for home purchases in Vermont were the 48th lowest in the nation.

Researchers built the list by polling at least four lenders in each state, as well as the District of Columbia, asking for estimated closing costs on a $200,000 loan, assuming a 20 percent downpayment and good credit.

The numbers do not include taxes, and other government and escrow fees.

The Public Assets Institute in Montpelier has published "State of Working Vermont 2009."