Along with builders, large and small, Pulte Homes is focusing the attention of its prospective customers on the benefits of the first-time homebuyer tax credit included in the landmark housing stimulus legislation signed by President Bush on July 30.

To help generate excitement over the availability of the tax credit, Pulte announced a promotional effort in which it will match the $7,500 for any buyer of its homes through Sept. 15.

Richard Dugas, president and CEO of Pulte Homes, and other participants in an NAHB teleconference on Aug. 4, said they expected the $7,500 tax credit to provide a major boost to slow markets around the country, but noted that it is imperative for builders to get the word out about its availability.

“Today, many consumers are well-positioned to buy a home but lack the confidence or incentive to jump into the marketplace,” said NAHB President Sandy Dunn. “This tax credit will help get them off the fence.” The tax credit, Dunn said, “will increase housing demand, get home buyers back into the marketplace and fight falling housing prices, which threaten the economy as a whole.”

To review the specifics of the rules for the credit and how it works, builders and consumers can consultwww.federalhousingtaxcredit.com.