Request for Extension of Time Limit to Purchase a Residence

Accounting and Finance Officer E. B. Kirkpatrick requested a decision on the propriety of his refusal to extend the 1-year time limit to allow an employee to purchase a second residence at his new duty station and obtain reimbursement for such expenses. The employee claimed he purchased a condominium for which he incurred no reimbursable real estate expenses as a temporary residence in lieu of renting an apartment. The purchase of the second residence was not judged by the agency official as related to the permanent change of station; however, the agency has the discretion to allow the extension of time if it chooses. (SW)