Financial Tips

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Understanding Harris County Property Taxes: Essential Tips for Homeowners

March 18, 2024

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

December 14, 2023

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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Real Estate Taxes Vs. Property Taxes in Texas. What’s the Difference? 

August 9, 2023

If you own property in Texas, you are probably familiar with real estate taxes, or as some may refer to as property taxes. These two terms are often used interchangeably, however, they have different meanings and are not the same in certain situations. This is especially important for Texans when it comes time to pay…

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3 Resources for Low Income Texans that Need Help Paying Mortgage Payments or Property Taxes

June 12, 2023

June is National Homeownership Month and is recognized for the impact homeownership has on people’s lives and local communities. In honor of this month, Johnson & Starr wants to remind Texans that there are various resources available for low-income Texans who need help paying their mortgage payments and property taxes. Keep reading to learn more…

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Why a Property Tax Loan with No Payments for a Year May Be a Bad Idea

April 13, 2023

For many Texas homeowners, being delinquent on Texas property taxes can be an overwhelming and stressful situation and can often lead to impulsive decision-making. If you are in a hurry to pay off your delinquent property taxes and decide to use a licensed lender, you may be tempted to choose the first property tax lender…

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What is Escrow and Why Aren’t My Texas Property Taxes Included in My Mortgage?

March 29, 2023

If you are delinquent on your Texas property taxes and struggling to pay off your property tax bill in one lump sum payment, you might be looking for ways to avoid this from occurring in the future. Like many Texans, you might find it challenging when you are hit with a sizable bill at once,…

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4 Investment Tips for Texas Homeowners

February 2, 2023

As a Texas homeowner, the start of the new year can be the perfect time to invest your money for the future. No matter your age or income level, by taking steps to invest your money, you can improve your finances and protect your home from emergencies or unexpected expenses. Keep reading to learn 4…

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5 Financial Resolutions for 2023

January 20, 2023

Are you planning to improve your personal finances in the New Year? As a Texas homeowner, you should start strategizing your financial obligations now so you can properly manage your budget for the year ahead. Our team has pulled together these 5 tips to help you hit your 2023 financial goals. 1. Create a Household…

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8 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill in Texas

January 10, 2023

January 10th is known as Cut Your Energy Costs Day, a day to encourage homeowners to use less energy and save money at the same time. For Texas property owners, this can be an excellent opportunity for you to free up some cash, especially with the Texas property tax bill deadline approaching at the end…

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5 Year-End Tax Planning Tips

December 22, 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, it’s time to start thinking about year-end tax planning and taking the actions necessary to help minimize your tax burden. If you use the correct strategies, you can free up cash for your business or personal life. Here are a few financial strategies that can help you manage your…

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