Take advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit!
A person who has not owned a principle residence for the last 3 years qualifies for this $8,000 tax credit under the rules you can read about at http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/home2.html. This is basically FREE money for purchasing real estate. Tell your children, and think about other people you know who may qualify for this tremendous benefit!