Hello RMac,
Unfortunately you will not be allowed to claim the first time homebuyers credit.
The law requires that if a married couple purchases a home, that neither one of them have owned a primary residence in the 3 years preceeding the purchase.
The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.
Please refer to the the following website for a list of the most common rules for claiming this credit. Your particular situation is addressed in point # 2.
http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq1.php
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Accountant
25+ years tax consulting. Specializing in returns for US citizens living abroad