Dear Ms. Lank: I bought a one-bedroom condo four years ago when I graduated from college. I have since married and we are expecting our first baby in September. We are going to be in need of a bigger home.

My wife has never owned a home. Would we be eligible to take advantage of the first time homebuyer stimulus benefits with her on the title and mortgage and without leaving me off the same? -- B.J.

Answer: The rules for the 2009 first-time homebuyer's tax credit say that neither spouse can have owned a home in the past three years. Even if your wife buys in her name alone, your purchase won't qualify.

Removing Her Ex

Dear Edith: How do I remove an ex-husband's name from my mortgage without re-financing? -- J.

Answer: You know, it poses no threat to you if your ex remains liable on the mortgage. Taking his name off would help him, of course. The loan would no longer show up on his credit record as his personal debt.

I assume, therefore, that you want to do him a favor. Or perhaps you promised to relieve him of liability as part of your divorce agreement. Consider: Mortgage rates are so low right now that it may actually be worth the cost and trouble of refinancing, if you can qualify to do so.

Otherwise, your mortgage lender may agree to relieve your ex of responsibility if you can prove that you've carried the payments on your own, perhaps for 12 month past. Or they may not agree. To find out, ask.