ForConstructionPros.com

I just returned from ConExpo-Con/Agg, and I’m dead tired. My shoes need replacing; I’m not sure, but my feet might need replacing. That was one heck of a show.

From what I could see and from talking to various manufacturers, it looks like people were placing orders to take advantage of the meager interest rates and the soft market conditions.

I polled various contractors in the Midwest over the past few months and most said they had work for 2008. When talking to those same people in Vegas, they still had work but some of the bigger projects related to retail outlets were getting pushed back 12 to 18 months. Just goes to show you how fast things change.

One thing that surprised me, however, was the response I received from dealers when I asked how much the contractors were asking about the new tax stimulus package and how they might take advantage of the program. Almost everyone I spoke with said equipment owners were not really aware of the program nor understood it. Consequently, we are going to go through the package, take a look at a few numbers and refer you to a website that can calculate the perceived benefit for you. Keep in mind, I am not providing tax advice.You have to get that from the professional you pay to provide that service.

There are two parts to the Tax Stimulus Package that relates to the purchase or ownership of construction equipment: