SOUTH BEND — Indiana has the third highest foreclosure rate in the country. A housing relief bill may not fix the mortgage crisis, but a local expert says it should help first time home buyers make that big purchase.

President Bush says he'll sign the relief bill. It would give some home buyers a tax credit up to $7,500. Experts say it may encourage people to reconsider buying a home, especially with prices dropping on foreclosed homes.

The Nortons are searching for their dream home.

"It would be one of these beautiful big old houses with a beautiful fireplace, hardwood floors and pocket doors," said Geri Norton, a first time home buyer.

One South Bend home caught their eye, but the price may still be a little high.

"We only have $3,000 for the down or closing," she explained.

And they don't qualify for low income help.

"We fall between the cracks," said Norton.

If President Bush signs the housing relief bill into law, their dream home could become more affordable. Under the bill, low income and first time home buyers would qualify for a credit up to $1,000 if they don't itemize their tax return. And people who purchase their first home before July 2009 could get a credit of $7,500.

"What they are trying to do is stimulate the economy, stimulate people getting out there and buying houses," said Debra Miller, a bankruptcy trustee.

But Miller doubts whether $300 billion set aside in the bill for mortgage lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will rescue 400,000 families from foreclosure.

"There are so many people in trouble that they need to come up with other solutions," said Miller.

But the relief for first time homeowners could turn the Norton's dream into a reality.

"Yea that would be wonderful," said Norton. "We don't want the house to own us."

Miller says people should get help through government agencies before a mortgage becomes unaffordable.

Ivy Tech Community College will have a free workshop this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to show people how they can avoid foreclosure. Homeowners are asked to bring mortgage and income documents.