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A few hours of exterior home and yard work can add thousands to your home’s value. Read
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Copyright 2013 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
A few hours of exterior home and yard work can add thousands to your home’s value. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2013 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
The purpose of real estate assessments is to fairly distribute a municipality’s tax burden among all property owners based on the market value of their property. Chester County PA real estate is assessed (generally 
annually) so that the costs associated with area schools, fire and police protection, and other necessary services and infrastructure can be allocated in proportion to the market value of individual properties.
Even as property values are on the decline, property taxes are on the rise nationwide, and, according to the National Taxpayers Union, as many as 60 percent of properties across the country are over-assessed.
So what is the owner of Chester County PA real estate to do? According to those “in the know”, there are steps you can take to reduce the assessment of your property’s value. Since the evaluation process begins in the spring, you would be wise to begin to take action in the following ways now:
The bottom line. Don't assume that your tax bill is set in stone. A little homework and due diligence can help reduce the burden.
Some sensible travel tips for you…
After the busy December season is over, holiday bills have been paid, and life has settled in to the doldrums of 
winter, many folks leave their Chester County PA home to treat themselves to a badly needed vacation or well-deserved weekend escape. Whether you plan to travel via plane, train, or car, these basic but helpful tips compiled by ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) allow you to begin and end your trip on a positive note.
Before leaving:
Car travel:
Whatever your mode of travel, make sure you take time to rest, relax, and enjoy yourself !
Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
You’re ready to remodel but you want to make sure you get the best contractor for the job. Here’s what to ask the candidates before you decide. Read
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Copyright 2013 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
As the gift-giving season rapidly approaches, some parents are considering a sizable and meaningful present for their children and/or grandchildren - Chester County PA real estate. This is the sign of a solid trend, since a growing number of parents are currently helping their children purchase homes, whether they’re buying these homes for their sons and daughters outright, helping them pay for closing costs, or coming up with the money for their down payments.
While such a gift is certainly in keeping with the spirit of the season, those who are giving or those relying on monetary donations from their parents or family members to buy Chester County PA real estate should follow some fairly simple underwriting and IRS rules.
As with all major financial decisions, you would be wise to consult your accountant and/or tax attorney before gifting monetary assistance for the purchase of Chester County PA real estate or the property itself.
Given the number and severity of natural disasters world-wide this year, it is no wonder that owners of Chester County real estate are becoming increasingly concerned about their insurance coverage for damages caused by these disasters, especially floods.
Since your basic homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover damage due to rising water,. you would be well advised to research flood insurance policies for your Chester County real estate. Think you’re safe because you live in a moderate-to-low-risk flood area? Think again. About 25% of all flood insurance claims come from areas with just such a designation!
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a federal program that offers flood insurance to homeowners. Visit FEMA and Floodsmart to determine your community’s flood risk. There are three types of policies available to owners of Chester County real estate: the standard dwelling; general property (for businesses and apartments); and residential condominium building association, and each can be purchased through most leading insurance companies at a relatively low annual fee. Average residential premiums cost about $570 a year, but a low-risk policy can be had for as little as $129.
As with other types of insurance, it’s important to know exactly what your policy covers, information about deductibles, rates, payment, and claim procedures. One area not covered is the basement, so finished walls, floors, and personal belongings found there are not claimable. . Rates are set and depend on factors such as your home’s age, type of construction, and location. Like other policies, having a higher deductible lowers the amount of the premium but will reduce your claim payment. Be advised that unless flood insurance is required by your lender, there will typically be a 30-day waiting period.
Insurers urge homeowners to inventory all of their belongings, estimate their value, and keep a copy of the list in a waterproofed spot or even in a location away from the residence. Some property owners rely on videotapes to catalog their possessions. Click here for free and easy-to-use inventory checklists and planners.
Lest you are thinking of foregoing flood insurance to save money, consider this: just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands in damage. During the past decade the average flood claim has amounted to over $33, 000! Best not to be penny wise but pound foolish…
Displaying blog entries 201-210 of 237
