Links
- Consumer Products Safety Commission - The government agency charged with protecting the public from injury and death from more than 15,000 products under its jurisdiction. This site contains recall and safety notices, a kids section and much more valuable information for consumers.
- Internal Revenue Publication 527 – The IRS publication you need to understand all aspects of federal taxation of rental property, including vacation homes and renting part of your home.
- MD Dept. of the Environment Lead Program – Direct link to the State’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program website for up-to-date information on compliance requirements for Maryland Landlords.
- MD Dept. of Licensing and Regulation – Before you hire a contractor, plumber or electrician, check the status of their license at this site. Never hire unlicensed trades and always require that their insurance carrier issue a certificate to you before they start. Did you know it is illegal for a contractor to require more than one-third of the contract price as a deposit? Don’t do it!
- Realty Exchange Corporation – Bill Horan of Realty Exchange Corp. spoke at our November 2007 meeting. REC is a qualified intermediary for tax deferred exchanges. If you have an investment property that has appreciated in value and you are thinking about selling, you MUST call Bill BEFORE you take the first step. He will make sure you pay little or no tax.
- Zillow.com – 67 million free, instant home valuations. It’s a good place to start for a ballpark valuation.
