Homebuyer Tax Credit Repayment to be Eliminated?

This just in from the Greater Piedmont Area Association of Realtors:
"The House Ways and Means Chairman has voted out the tax portion of the economic stimulus on a party-line vote, 24 - 13. It contains a provision that would eliminate the repayment feature of the $7500 first time homebuyer tax credit for purchases between 1-1-09 and 6-30-09. An amendment that would have significantly modified the credit was offered, but failed on a party line vote. During the course of debate on the Heller amendment, however, senior Committee member John Lewis offered vigorous support for extending the effective date of the credit through year-end. The National Association of Realtors continues to push to have the credit extended and expanded. A vote on all the parts of the economic stimulus (tax and non tax) is expected in the House on 1-28-09."

Since most potential buyers didn't realize that the tax credit had to be paid back, this isn't likely to bring a collective sigh of relief. However, this step IS important. I want to make sure my Buyers get as much help and encouragement as possible and if the credit isn't extended or expanded, it is set to expire in July of this year.