Below is from the Consumer Reports Website explaining a bit more about this program. Each state creates their own guidelines and start times for this program. I don't see anything definitive about MA yet, but will be keeping an eye out for it and will update once I have more information. From what I can gather, if MA is approved it will likely start in February 2010.

What you need to know about the $300 million State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program

Today is the deadline for states to submit an application for the U.S. Department of Energy's $300 million State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program, otherwise known as cash for clunkers for appliances. We've been getting a lot of questions from readers who want to take advantage of the incentives the states will dole out, so we've compiled this FAQ to fill you in on some specifics of the program.

Whether you are renting or you own your home consider doing all or some of these items.

—If you have a window air conditioner be sure to take it out of your window and store it. As the temperature drops all of that cold air will be coming in around the AC unit as well as through it.

—Check your weather stripping on all of your doors and windows. Be sure they are all sealed well. This will prevent cold air from getting in and your precious, costly heat from escaping.

—If you have older windows you may have triple tracks or storm windows, be sure to close them. You also may want to look into getting them re-glazed or at the very least getting some of the plastic film to help cut down on the air infiltration.

—Schedule a check-up for your heating system. A lot of times your energy provider will offer a service to come out and service your system and make sure you are ready to go for the winter. Otherwise, schedule an appointment with a professional that works with your type of heating system.

As many of you know I have received my green designation from the National Association of Realtors, well now I have been MA Energy Star New Homes Certified. What does this mean for you? Could be a lot of things, in this post it means that I will try to help you save money, and we all like that.

Until the end of the year you can purchase a new Energy Star rated programmable thermostat and get a $25 rebate. See below links for details and for any questions contact the vendors directly.

Panel Discussion To Focus On Greening Buildings In Historic Districts—

Many Beacon Hillers in the process of renovating their homes find themselves caught in a bind: While they would like to make their homes greener, they feel unable to do so because they are bound by the preservation guidelines that govern the historic district. But there are strategies and technologies that homeowners, architects and builders can employ to make the historic buildings on Beacon Hill and throughout Boston more energy efficient without violating these guidelines.

The Boston Globe reported that sales in Massachusetts in October were on the rise. October '08 increased 14 percent over Oct '07. Unfortunately prices also came down in that same period, but that's okay. Sales are happening and buyers and sellers are realizing that it is not all doom and gloom. Think about it, a buyer in this market can actually afford a house and it is a great time to buy. On the flip side, the seller may have to sell for less than they paid, but they can now afford to upgrade to a larger house. Or maybe they preferred a certain town when they bought originally, but they were priced out of that market.