Financial Tips
Need Help with Your Texas Property Taxes, Start Here
As inflation has continued to rise, property taxes are at an all time high in Texas with a nearly 20% increase in some Counties. Property taxes are confusing and how to handle the challenges that come with navigating new laws and maintaining payments can pose a struggle. If you need help with your Texas Property…
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What Taxes in 2025 Might Look Like
In the last several years the country as a whole has gone through a lot: political changes, natural disasters, pandemics, inflation, and more. These outside factors affect many parts of our life, including property taxes. In Texas specifically, major urban areas like Austin, Dallas, and Houston have seen substantial property value increases due to population…
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Why Do Property Taxes Go Up?
Property taxes are an unavoidable part of owning a home and it would be wonderful if we had a set amount of taxes when we bought our home that never changed. It would certainly make budgeting much easier. Sadly, our property taxes in Texas go up almost every year. How much they go up varies…
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Understanding the Recent Property Tax Rate Increase in Harris County
Property taxes are a difficult but necessary part of being a homeowner. While property taxes are a costly expense, those taxes go into supporting and maintaining the infrastructure of local communities. When a county increases taxes, there are rules to follow and limits to the increases that can occur. However, like the situation we just…
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Cómo detener la ejecución hipotecaria de impuestos sobre la propiedad
Los impuestos representan una carga significativa para las familias, especialmente con la inflación y el aumento de los costos en todo el país. Esa carga puede volverse abrumadora cuando se ha caído atrás y se enfrenta la posibilidad real de una ejecución hipotecaria de impuestos sobre la propiedad. Afortunadamente, hay una multitud de formas de…
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A Guide to Understanding the July 1st Property Tax Penalty in Texas
In Texas, missing the January 31st deadline can lead to penalties, culminating in a significant financial hit on July 1st. In this blog, we’ll provide the details of this penalty, the reasons why it’s crucial to avoid it, and practical tips to ensure you stay ahead of your financials. What is the July 1st Property…
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Your Guide to Property Tax Loans and Credit Scores
When considering a loan, most people are rightly concerned about their credit score. Defaulted payments or frequent credit checks can negatively impact your credit rating. However, property tax loans don’t normally show up on your credit report. Some property tax lenders, like Johnson & Starr, offer property tax loans to help you get your finances…
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4 Myths about Texas Property Tax Loans
Texas property tax loans are often misunderstood. As a trusted property tax lender, Johnson & Starr aims to provide you with the right knowledge to help you determine what is true and what is not. In this blog, we’ll debunk the four most common misconceptions about property tax loans and give you a better understanding…
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Understanding Harris County Property Taxes: Essential Tips for Homeowners
Harris County property owners should know the basics of property taxes to ensure effective financial and property management. This guide will help explain how property taxes are determined, important tax dates, and some essential tips for property tax delinquency. How Is Harris County Property Tax Determined? The Harris Central Appraisal District establishes taxable values and…
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6 Tips to Save Money this Holiday Season
It can be easy to overspend during the holiday season without even realizing it. From purchasing gifts, hosting parties, decorating, travel, holiday activities, and more, you could be turning a joyful holiday season into a few months of financial stress. However, it is possible to have a happy holiday season without breaking the bank. To…
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