First time home buyer - did I miss out on both credits?

[Anonymous]

When my mother refinanced her home in February of last year I was added to the loan package and received and took advantage of the tax breaks( interest deductions etc.) for my 2008 taxes. Because the refinance took place in February I was not entitled to the $7500.00 tax credit for a first time home buyer,( assuming that was what I was because I was added to the refinance package ) because the refinance occurred before April 8th, 2008. However, I am this year in a month about to buy a home completely on my own but I think because I took advantage of the tax breaks from the 2008 transaction, and because it occurred before April 8th, I'm going to miss out on both credits. Can someone tell me if my thinking is flawed 

[WannaHouse]

It sounds like you are now considered a co-owner of your mother's house? If so, then you will not qualify. If the house is in both of your names, then you are not considered a first time homeowner.

[Anonymous]

Additionally, you're out of luck, I'm afraid, on two other counts:

• both credits were only for new purchases, not refinancing;
• and -- even if adding your name would be considered 'buying' half a house, the credit(s) were disallowed for purchases from close family.