The federal government’s first-time homebuyer tax credit gives home buyers $8,000 just for purchasing their first home. Unfortunately, time is running out to take adavantage of this offer as first-time home buyers must put a contract down on their new home by April 30, 2010. With this deadline looming, Gerstad Builders would like everyone to know that it has three beautiful homes in three different communities that can be available in as little as 30 days.

If families act quickly, they can choose from a 1,560+ square foot tri-level home in Poplar Grove ($150,000), a 1,888 square-foot ranch home ($289,990) or a 1,995 square-foot two-story decorated model for $269,900.

The most affordable home currently being offered by the McHenry County home builder is the Fairview model at Dawson Creek in Poplar Grove. This three-bedroom, 2-bath home with three-car garage is available for immediate occupancy. In its standard configuration the 1,560 square-foot tri-level home is normally base priced at $169,990, but this special home has been expanded with a finished lower level, includes central air conditioning and has been reduced in price from $225,105 to only $150,000*. This fully equipped home also includes Aristocraft cabinetry, GE appliance package, Kohler faucets and fully seeded yard.

Another outstanding home that qualifies for the $8,000 tax credit is the Lexington II ranch home. This 1,888 square-foot ranch home is available for quick delivery at Liberty Trails in McHenry. Base priced at $221,990, this spacious three-bedroom, two-bath home with corner lookout basement and numerous upgrades would normally be priced at $329,250, but is now available for $289,990*. Filled with upgrades and desirable options, first-time homebuyers will discover this partial brick home includes a full basement, a four-season room, skylights in great room, hardwood floors, ceramic floor tile, stainless steel appliances, Sensa granite kitchen counter tops and Stonite vanity counters in bath rooms.

The final home ready for immediate occupancy is the professionally decorated, two-story Robin model at The Trails of Pheasant Ridge in Richmond. This carefully constructed two-story home provides 1,995 square-feet of living space and is priced to sell with its long list of material upgrades and options for $269,900*. Within this attractive home, prospective buyers will discover custom made window treatments, upgraded light fixtures, fully landscaped home site and numerous custom touches. The Robin has three bedrooms, a loft, 2-1/2 bathrooms, basement and a three-car garage.

*Prices subject to change, for specific details, contact the on-site sales agent at each community