Your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Lender: December 2024

As another year races by, what will the markets be watching as we bring 2024 to a close?

Let's take a look. Inflation pressures have somewhat eased, but one metric, the Core Consumer Price Index year over year, remains stubbornly sticky at 3.3%. The core rate strips out volatile food and energy. The headline Consumer Price Index hit a 40-year high of 9.1% year over year in June of 2022 but has fallen to 2.6%. The rate of inflation has declined, but prices are still rising.

Borrowing costs fell from multi-year highs in September but have pushed above those lows and look to remain near current levels for the remainder of the year and into early next year. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is currently just below the 7% level, as would-be home buyers try to hold off on one of their biggest investments as they seek a lower monthly cost.

The Federal Reserve will hold its Federal Open Market Committee meeting on December 17th-18th, where it is expected it will cut the short-term Fed Funds Rate by 0.25%. This is despite Fed members saying the economy is strong and the job market remains solid. But don't get too excited; a Fed Rate cut doesn't equal lower borrowing costs. At the time of the Fed Rate cut of 0.50% on September 18th, the 30-year fixed rate was just above 6% and has since climbed to 6.81%.

Over in the stock markets, investors will be looking for the Santa Claus rally, which is the sustained increase in the stock market that occurs around the Christmas holiday on December 25th. Most estimate these rallies happen in the week leading up to the Christmas holiday, while others see trends that begin on Christmas Day through January 2nd. The closely watched S&P 500 stock index is currently near an all-time record high.

Bottom line: Stocks, bonds, interest rates, borrowing costs, inflation, home buying ... and along with everyday life, so much for the American consumer to juggle. For those in the quest for homeownership, we know that there are many hurdles to jump, but they are easier when you know you can achieve the American Dream.

Source: Mortgage Market Guide

Team Lasson is here for all of your home buying needs! If you’re thinking about making the leap into home ownership in the near future, please contact us today to get started. We can help you determine what loan program works best for your financial goals. The first step in preparing for your big purchase is to get pre-approved for a mortgage at Lake of the Ozarks. Please visit www.yourlakeloan.com or give us a call at (573) 216-7258 to get started.

Michael Lasson

Senior Mortgage Banker

NMLS #: 493712

Flat Branch Home Loans – Team Lasson

2882 Bagnell Dam Blvd

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Email: teamlasson@fbhl.com

Website: www.yourlakeloan.com

**The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent Flat Branch Home Loans positions, strategies, or opinions.

Flat Branch Home Loans NMLS 224149. A Division of Flat Branch Mortgage Inc. For more licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

Property Taxes | How They're Determined & What You Need to Know

Property taxes are a significant consideration for homeowners and potential buyers, as they contribute to the cost of owning a home. These taxes are typically used to fund local services such as schools, public safety, infrastructure, and community development. Understanding how property taxes are determined can help homeowners plan their finances better and avoid surprises.

How Property Taxes Are Determined

Property taxes are generally calculated based on the assessed value of your property, which includes both the land and any structures on it. Local government assessors evaluate the property’s market value, considering factors such as location, size, use, and comparable property sales in the area. The assessment process may vary depending on the jurisdiction, but it usually involves a periodic appraisal, often conducted annually or biannually.

Once the assessed value is determined, local tax rates, known as millage or mill rates, are applied. These rates are set by local government entities, such as city councils or school boards, and can vary widely depending on the area’s budgetary needs. The mill rate is typically expressed as a dollar amount per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if the mill rate is 20 and your property is assessed at $200,000, your annual property tax would be $4,000. It’s important to note that these rates can change over time, reflecting the financial needs of the local government or changes in property values.

Factors Influencing Property Taxes

Several factors can influence the amount of property taxes you pay:

Property Location: Taxes can vary significantly based on where the property is located, as different municipalities have different tax rates and levies.
Property Improvements: Any improvements or additions to the property, such as building a new room or upgrading the kitchen, can increase the assessed value and, consequently, the tax amount.
Market Conditions: Property values fluctuate based on real estate market conditions. In a booming market, property values—and taxes—may rise, while a downturn could lower them.
Local Government Budget: The tax rates are influenced by the financial needs of local government services. If there is a need for increased funding, tax rates may rise accordingly.
Exemptions and Relief Programs: Many areas offer property tax exemptions or relief programs for certain groups, such as senior citizens, veterans, or low-income homeowners. These can significantly reduce the overall tax burden.

Understanding Your Property Tax Bill

Your property tax bill will detail how your taxes are calculated and provide a breakdown of where the funds are allocated. It’s crucial to review this bill carefully and understand each component. If you believe your property has been overvalued or the tax amount is incorrect, you have the right to appeal the assessment.

Understanding property taxes is essential for homeowners to effectively manage their finances and avoid unexpected costs. By understanding how property taxes are determined and what factors influence them, you can make informed decisions about buying, maintaining, or improving your property. Keeping an eye on local government activities and budgetary needs can also help anticipate potential changes in your tax obligations.

Sources:

TaxFoundation.org

Investopedia