It seems these days it’s hard to put a finger on the price of a home.

For one thing, the economy continues to shift causing fluctuations in various markets. For another, prices are based on comps – and comps have been affected by short-sales and other distressed-owner sales.

DEAR BENNY: I read with interest what you wrote about putting rental properties in LLCs. What can you tell me about the new series LLCs for real estate investors? It appears they can be formed only in certain states, but would they be recognized in all states? --Elizabeth

DEAR ELIZABETH: The "series LLC" is a new, untested concept. Oversimplified, it is a "master" limited liability company, composed of two or more limited liability companies.

DEAR BENNY: In your column a few weeks ago you mentioned a book written about condos and townhomes. Could you please give me the name of the book and where I can buy it? --MaryLou

We are happy to confirm that the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit has in fact been extended.

The tax credit, originally set up as a no-interest loan back in 2008, was converted this year as a full tax credit as part of the stimulus package for "first-time" buyers only.  The new law extends the tax credit to all sales up to April 30, 2010, and extends the credit to existing home owners as well.

According to the Associated Press, the House voted 403-12 in favor of the law granting the extension.

DEAR BENNY: Can you tell me what steps a board of directors/management company should take in the event a water-damage claim against the master policy is made by a condo owner? Should the board/management company investigate, take pictures of the damage, and stay actively involved throughout the claims process or merely turn the whole matter over to the insurance company and, in the event of litigation, its attorney? --Paul