Advantages & Disadvantages Of Property Tax

Even though we all can appreciate the good points of owning a home vs. renting, when it comes to property tax law, renting is by far the better option.

The assessment is commonly made by an exclusive county tax collector in each state. An individual's property and land will be appraised of its value and subsequently mailed as a tax payment notice. This usually is paid through a homeowner's escrow amount stated on their mortgage.

People on a fixed income, such as Senior citizens who have retired can be greatly affected by the increase of property tax. The value of their homes increase, but at the same time they find themselves unable to pay their taxes because of their reduced income. Unfortunately, property tax doesn't allow much wiggle room in the event of acts of nature or personal tragedy.

Many times this can negatively affect a property or land owner as the taxes in a specific state can sometimes double or triple in amount and leave the homeowner unable to afford to pay their taxes, forcing them to sell their property or land.

So who determines how the money generated from this income is spent or in some cases wasted? The state legislatures will determine this along with the decision to increase or decrease property tax and how frequent it is collected.

Even though property tax can absolutely help states with income, the amount of property tax to be paid can be a determining factor in one's decision where to reside to achieve the American Dream of land or home ownership.