If you are wondering what the interests rates are going to do you are not alone. The Change in rates can have a significant impact on your monthly payments. No one knows for sure which way the rates will go or when is the best time to lock in your rate. What we now know is that rates are near historic lows at that if inflation rises then rates are sure to follow. I have included a Rate Lock Advisory on my web page that is updated daily. Be sure to visit this site at any time you may be considering a refi or purchase. It is not a guarantee but will give you the updated summary of the current market condition.
www.LynnAppraisals.com
If the value of your house is less than the current Tax assessed value, then why not ask the Assessor to adjust the value to its current rate. In most counties in California your property is assessed based on the value on 1/1/XX. Property taxes appeals are typically allowed from July to November. But you must be able to prove what the value of your house was at on Jan. 1st. The value is determined by an appraisal and the analysis of comparable sales. If you purchased your home between 2004 and 2007 it may be assessed higher than its current value.
Is it worth the cost of an appraisal?
If the typical appraisal cost $350 - $450 dollars then a drop in value of only $35,000 - $45,000 would offset the cost on the very first year. I have seen values drop over $100,000+ during this time. Thats a tax savings of $1,000+- the very first year. Its the difference between what your home is assessed for and the current actual value based on an appraisal.
Remember, its the sales data now that will be used to prove the current value. Not the value when you submit an appeal, later in the year. So arm yourself now with an appraisal. NOW
The increase in the number of "foreclosures" and "short sales" is keeping the values down. Typically a foreclosure in the neighborhood was ingnored by the agents and appraisers as it was not typical. But now, because they have become common, they have established the Market. This has forced the sellers who do not need to sell, to lower their prices so they can compete with the bank owned homes.
Everyone seems to be riding the fence to see if prices will go down further and/or interest rates going lower. If this continues then it may force prices even lower.
When will this cycle end?
Larry J. Lynn, SRA (ca certifed appraiser / real estate broker)
Integrity with Service....Over 25 years of experience and 10,000+ appraisals.
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