Why November Is the Smartest Time to Refinance Your Property Tax Loan
If you’re a Texas property owner, the end of the year can feel like a race to wrap up loose ends. Between holiday commitments, year-end budgeting, and preparing for the year ahead, the last thing you want is another financial stressor, especially a new property tax bill. At Johnson & Starr, we specialize in taking…
What Are the Benefits to Refinancing Your Texas Property Tax Loan?
If you currently have a property tax loan and have recently received your 2025 bill, you may be wondering what options you have. Paying your 2025 bill may still be difficult before the February deadline. In many cases, refinancing your property tax loan can offer real financial advantages – especially if your circumstances or interest…
4 Budgeting Hacks for Texas Homeowners Facing Higher Costs
It seems like everything from groceries to utilities are costing more these days. For homeowners, rising expenses can feel especially overwhelming as you juggle household bills, maintenance, and unexpected repairs on top of daily needs. However, with a few smart budgeting strategies, you can stretch your money a bit further—without sacrificing your peace of mind.…
What is a Property Tax Lien?
If you own property in Texas, or anywhere in the United States, you’re required to pay some level of property taxes each year. These taxes help fund essential public services like schools, police and fire departments, and local infrastructure. But if property taxes aren’t paid on time, the local government has a powerful legal tool…
Property Tax Payment Relief for Those Impacted by the Texas Tragedy
At Johnson and Starr, our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by the recent natural disaster in Central Texas. We know how devastating these events can be for families and property owners. During times like these, community matters most, and we want you to know that Johnson & Starr is here for…
The July 1st Deadline Has Passed, and You Still Owe a Lot, Now What?
If you missed the July 1st property tax payment deadline in Texas, you’re not alone and you still have options. Every year, thousands of property owners fall behind on their tax bills, whether due to financial hardship, confusion about deadlines, or simply being overwhelmed. Unfortunately, once July 1st hits, things can escalate quickly: penalties, interest,…
Why Do Delinquent Property Taxes in Texas Spike in July?
The longer delinquent Texas property taxes go unpaid, the harder they become to manage. Each month of delinquency brings added penalties, interest, and fees, but July 1st marks a turning point. That’s when an especially steep penalty kicks in, making it significantly more difficult to catch up. What Happens in July? Starting July 1st, local…
5 Money-Saving Hacks for Texas Homeowners Heading into the Summer
It’s no secret that the cost of living continues to rise just like temperatures in the Lone Star State, and Texas homeowners are looking for smart ways to stretch their dollars without sacrificing comfort. From Austin to Amarillo, and everywhere in between, these quick hacks can help you save money and keep your home running…
Texas Property Tax Loan FAQ – 10 Questions about Texas Property Tax Loans Answered by Experts
When property tax season rolls around, many homeowners find themselves scrambling to cover a hefty bill that can threaten their financial stability. That’s why we’ve brought together Texas property tax loan experts to answer some of the most common questions they receive in our “Texas Property Tax Loan FAQ” webinar. In this post, you’ll find…
How to Prevent Property Tax Penalties: Essential Tips
In the 1970’s in Texas, property taxes were roughly 2%-3%, on average, of a Texan’s income. Then in 1982, Texas abolished the state property tax making local governments fully responsible for property tax collection at the district and county level. Fast forward to the 2000’s and that average tax to income ratio had risen to…