Keeping Bathtub Users Independent

As a lover of the bathtub, I am especially aware of the advancements being made in the area of user friendly tub accessiblity for the elderly and physically challenged. The accessiblity issues are many if the user can't climb over the edge to get in or lift themselves up to get out. As a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Grand Bay Builders can offer our customers various options to either modify their existing bath tub or to replace it with a newly designed unit.

The are many retro fit door inserts which can convert your tub to a walk in shower but we also offer a Safety Bath Door insert which will maintain its use as a tub as well.

If you would prefer to replace your existing tub with something new, Independent Living USA has addressed the problem by designing a Walk-In bathtub with a door shaped to pass over the bather's knees when he or she is safely seated. The Presidential unit is UL approved and has made in the USA since 2003.

Grand Bay Builders is pleased to be able to help people stay in their own home environments as long as possible. Keeping bathing accessible is just one of the many areas where we can help.

Long live the therapy of a relaxing bath, Nancy Lisabeth

New Home Tax Credit Info

If you haven't owned a home in 3 years you could qualify for the $8,000 New Home Tax Credit. Now is the perfect time to consider the purchase of a new home- there are many on the market to choose from at great prices.

The basic eligibility requirements for the credit are: the home must have been purchased on or after Jan. 1 and before Dec. 1, 2009; the buyer may not have owned a home in the three years prior to the purchase; and the buyer must have a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) less than $95,000 for single tax payers or $170,000 for married filers.

Two factors affect the amount of credit qualified buyers can claim: it can only be equal to 10 percent of the purchase price of the home, up to a maximum of $8,000; and it is reduced for buyers with a MAGI between $75,000 for single taxpayers ($150,000 for married filers) and the upper income limit.

Don't be intimidated by the requirements. Realtors are a wonderful source of information. So consider talking to your local real estate expert and begin the fun of searching for a new home for your family.

Call me - I'll can give you the contact information for friendly, professional realtors in the area who will be delighted to share their expertise. Nancy