How do I reach the IRS?

 

To reach the Internal Revenue Service, call (800) TAX-1040; www.irs.gov.

 

---

 

Where do I get information about finding a real estate attorney?

 

To find a real estate attorney, contact your local bar association, which may offer local referral services. You may also ask friends or your real estate agent for their recommendations. When you have several names, call each to find out about fees and their level of experience.

 

---

 

Where do I get information on homes with historic value?

 

For information about homes with historic value, contact the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Washington, D.C. at (202) 588-6000; www.nationaltrust.org.

 

---

 

Where do I get information on housing market stats?

 

A real estate agent is a good source for finding out the status of the local housing market. So is your statewide association of Realtors, most of which are continuously compiling such statistics from local real estate boards.

For overall housing statistics, U.S. Housing Markets (www.meyersgroup.com) regularly publishes quarterly reports on home building and home buying. Your local builders association probably gets this report. Finally, check with the U.S. Bureau of the Census in Washington, D.C.; (301) 763-3199; www.census.gov. The Chicago Title company also has published a pamphlet, "Who's Buying Homes in America." Write Chicago Title 601 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32204; (888) 934-3354; www.ctic.com.

 

---

 

Where can I get a list of architects?

 

If you need an architect, contact a local chapter of the American Institute of Architects or the national organization itself at 1735 New York Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20006-5292; (800) AIA-3837; www.aia.org. Also contact friends or colleagues who have recently worked with an architect for referrals. Take the time to interview several before choosing an architect.

 

---

 

Where do I get information on remodeling?

 

Resources: 

• National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 780 Lee St., Ste 200, Dex Plaines, IL 60016; (800) 611-6274; nari.org. 
• "Rehab a Home With HUDs 203(K)," published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th St., Washington, DC 20410; call (202) 708-1112; www.hud.gov. 
• "Cost vs. Value Report," by Remodeling magazine, 1 Thomas Circle, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005; remodeling.hw.net. $8.95 per copy; call (202) 736-3447 for credit card orders. 
• "The Do-able Renewable Home," a booklet published by the American Association of Retired Persons, available online at www.homemods.org.