From Your First Home to Your Forever Home

  Do I Need to Sign a Buyer-Broker Agreement When Buying a Home in St. Joseph or Elkhart County, Indiana? Buying a Home in Indiana If you're preparing to buy a home in St. Joseph or Elkhart County and wondering about the current process for working with a real estate agent (Realtor), here's what you need to know. Starting mid-July 2024, a new policy from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) requires agents to secure a signed buyer-broker agreement before assisting buyers. This policy ensures: Clarity: Clearly defining the agent-buyer relationship and outlining agent fees. Commitment: Prohibiting agents from showing homes without an official agreement. Transparency: Setting clear expectations for services and compensation. While these stipulations have already been standard practice in many places, including Indiana, this nationwide policy strengthens transparency and ensures that all parties are on the same page from the outset. What Is a Buyer-Broker Agreement? A Buyer-Broker Agreement is a contract between a homebuyer and a real estate agent that outlines the agent’s duties, compensation, and the buyer’s obligations. Here’s a closer look at its key elements: Establishing a Working RelationshipSigning this agreement formalizes your partnership with your agent. It legally obligates the agent to represent your best interests during the home-buying process — from negotiations to market analysis and paperwork guidance. Seeking more information about buying or selling in Indiana? Check out these helpful resources: When is the best time to sell a home in South Bend? Top 10 Reasons a Home Sale Falls Apart Will I pay Capital Gains on my Home Sale? 10 Essential Documents for a Smooth Home-Buying Journey Search Today's Hottest New Listings! Compensation ClarityThis agreement specifies how your agent will be compensated, typically through the seller’s commission, meaning no direct cost to you. However, in cases where the seller doesn’t offer a commission, the agreement may require the buyer to pay. Reviewing this section carefully helps you understand any potential financial obligations. ExclusivityMost buyer-broker agreements are exclusive, meaning you agree to work solely with that agent for a specified time. This benefits both parties — your agent commits fully to your search, and you gain dedicated service. Non-exclusive agreements exist but are rare. Scope of RepresentationThe agreement outlines the agent’s duties, such as finding properties, negotiating offers, and providing market advice. It also specifies your responsibilities, like maintaining communication and honoring scheduled showings. Cancellation TermsThe agreement includes cancellation terms, ensuring flexibility if the partnership doesn’t work out. These terms protect both parties and ensure you can terminate the contract under specific conditions. The New NAR Policy and What It Means for You The new NAR policy introduces significant changes for buyer-agent relationships. Agents must have a signed buyer-broker agreement before showing properties, ensuring transparency and clear communication about services and compensation. Another notable update prohibits the display of buyer-broker compensation on Multiple Listing Service (MLS) listings. Instead, compensation is negotiated directly between the buyer, seller, and their agents or arranged through seller-offered concessions like closing cost support. These changes reflect a broader industry shift toward transparency, consumer choice, and clarity in real estate transactions. Buying a home in St. Joseph or Elkhart County is a big decision, and understanding your rights and responsibilities as a buyer is crucial. For more on how the NAR settlement impacts homebuyers and sellers, visit their official page. Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100www.ND-Condos.comTim@TimVicsik.com (574) 329-9587

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Pre-Move Check List! So, you’ve navigated the South Bend housing market and now hold the keys to your new home! Congratulations! But before you dive into decorating and unpacking, there are several essential tasks to tackle that will ensure a smooth transition into your new space. We’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist of what to do before moving into your South Bend home. Essential Tasks Before Moving In Change the Locks: First things first, change the locks on all exterior doors. This simple step enhances your security by ensuring that only you and your family can access your new home. You can never be too sure who may have keys from previous owners or contractors. Consider contacting a local locksmith like Michiana Lock and Key or Ace Safe and Lock of South Bend. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Safety should be your top priority. Before moving in, test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning properly. If they are outdated or not working, replace them immediately. You can find replacements at local hardware stores like Ace Hardware or Home Depot. Service HVAC and Appliances: Schedule a professional service for your HVAC system, furnace, or air conditioning unit. It’s also wise to check that all appliances (if included with the home) are in good working order. Addressing these issues now can prevent discomfort later, especially with South Bend's fluctuating weather. Local HVAC companies include Sun Services Heating & Air and Sikorski Heating and Cooling. Complete Inspection Projects: Review the inspection report from your home purchase and tackle any necessary repairs or projects before moving in. This might include fixing leaky faucets, painting walls, or replacing worn-out fixtures. Local handymen or contractors can be found through resources like your Realtor or by searching local South Bend contractor directories. Deep Clean Your New Home: Whether you choose to hire a cleaning service or do it yourself, ensure that your new home is thoroughly cleaned before unpacking. This is much easier when the space is empty, allowing you to reach every corner. Consider local cleaning services like Professional Touch Cleaning or Michiana Cleaners. Locate Important Utilities: Familiarize yourself with the location of the circuit breaker and main water shut-off valves. Knowing where these are can save you time and trouble in case of an emergency. This is especially important in South Bend with its older housing stock. Update Your Address: Don’t forget to update your address with important institutions such as banks, credit card companies, and the postal service. You can do this online through the USPS website. Transfer Utilities: Contact utility companies to transfer services (electricity, water, gas, internet) to your name before moving day. This will help avoid any interruptions in service when you arrive. In South Bend, you'll likely need to contact companies like Indiana Michigan Power (electric), NIPSCO (gas), and the City of South Bend for water. For internet, options include Xfinity, Metronet, and AT&T. Monitor Your Credit Score: As a new homeowner, keeping an eye on your credit score is crucial for future financial decisions, especially when it comes to your home. Regular monitoring can help you catch any discrepancies early.  Most credit cards and banks offer free Credit Monitoring! Set Up an Escrow Account: If applicable, set up an escrow account for property taxes and insurance payments to manage these expenses effectively. Your loan officer can help you through the process and answer any questions you may have, note that many lenders now automatically set this up on your behalf.   Organize Important Documents: Create a safe place for important documents related to your home purchase, such as the purchase agreement, closing disclosures, inspection reports, and property deeds. Keeping these organized will be useful for future reference. Getting Settled in South Bend Once you've completed these essential tasks, it’s time to start making your South Bend house feel like home! Unpack Strategically: Start with essentials like kitchenware and toiletries. Measure Spaces: Before arranging furniture, measure rooms to ensure everything fits as planned. Explore Your Neighborhood: Familiarize yourself with local amenities such as grocery stores like Martin's Super Markets, parks like St. Patrick's County Park, and community centers. Meet Your Neighbors: A friendly introduction can help build community ties right from the start. South Bend has many active neighborhood associations that are a great way to connect. Welcome to South Bend! Tim Vicsikwww.ND-Condos.comTim@TimVicsik.com (574) 329-9587 

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Your Home Sale and Capital Gains in Indiana What is capital gains tax?  Let's start with the basics: It's a tax on profits from selling assets like stock or real estate. When you sell these for more than you paid, the IRS taxes the gain. You can find more information on capital gains from the IRS website. In Indiana real estate, capital gains are calculated by taking the final sale price and deducting the original cost. However, the tax on that gain has additional considerations: How long you owned the house Any fees you've paid — escrow, recording and appraisal fees, brokers' commissions (common in Indiana real estate transactions) Your federal income tax bracket (See the IRS tax brackets) Your marital status If you owned your house for less than a year, the capital gains are short-term and taxed at your ordinary income rate (like wages). If you owned it for more than a year, they're long-term. In 2024, long-term capital gains rates are 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on your federal income. You can find the most up-to-date information on long-term capital gains rates on the IRS website. These are typically lower than ordinary income tax rates. Indiana is a state that has a state income tax, so you will also pay state taxes on your capital gains. You can find more information about Indiana's state income tax from the Indiana Department of Revenue. Exclusions Since most Hoosiers own their homes for more than a year, long-term capital gains rates usually apply. You might avoid some tax because real estate gains have different rules than investment capital gains. These rules apply only to your primary residence; if you sold a second property (investment, vacation, or rental) that wasn't your primary residence, you can't use these exclusions. For most of these exemptions, you must have owned and lived in the house for two of the five years before the sale: You might defer capital gains if, after selling, you reinvest the profits into a new property within 180 days. This is often referred to as a 1031 exchange; you can find more information on 1031 exchanges on the IRS website [invalid URL removed]. You might use a capital gains tax exclusion for your primary residence once every two years. Exemptions are $250,000 if single and $500,000 for couples filing jointly. (Some widowed individuals may qualify for the $500,000 exemption.) See IRS Publication 523, Selling Your Home for details. Itemized construction expenses can be added to your home's cost basis, reducing your tax liability. Improvements must be major—adding a bedroom, renovating a kitchen (like updating that outdated 70s kitchen in your Broad Ripple bungalow), installing a roof—and documented; estimates won't work. (See IRS Publication 523, Selling Your Home for more examples.) Selling costs like real estate agent fees (common when selling in Indiana's competitive market) and closing costs can be deducted from the sale proceeds to reduce your capital gain. You might qualify for a partial exclusion if you sold due to unforeseen circumstances—moving for a job at Cummins in Columbus, a health issue, divorce, a spouse's death, or a natural disaster (like flooding along the Wabash River). You may also qualify if you entered uniformed, foreign, or intelligence services. Again, IRS Publication 523 provides details on these exceptions. Many Indiana homeowners have seen significant capital gains since purchasing their homes, especially in areas like Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Fort Wayne. You can manage the tax liability and keep more profit. Consult an Indiana tax professional to understand all the tax implications of selling your home in Indiana. They'll be familiar with both federal and Indiana state tax laws. Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100www.ND-Condos.comTim@TimVicsik.com (574) 329-9587 

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Is Winter a good time to buy in St Joseph and Elkhart County Indiana? While spring and summer might be the traditional times to buy a house, there are some hidden gems to be found in the colder months here in St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties. Here's why winter could be the perfect time to find your dream home: 1. Local Steals and Savings Nationally, home prices dip 3-5% in winter, but in our local market, you might find even better deals. Homes that haven't sold since the summer months could see sellers more motivated to close before the year ends. This translates to potential savings for you! Pro Tip: Use these savings to explore local shops and restaurants in your new neighborhood. Check out the unique boutiques in downtown South Bend or grab a bite at one of the many delicious spots along the Elkhart Riverwalk. 2. Fewer Bidding Wars, More Breathing Room Winter sees less competition from other buyers in St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties. This means you'll likely have more time to consider each property and negotiate a better deal. You might even snag a home at (or even below!) the asking price. 3. Unveiling the True Colors: Winter's Hidden Home Inspection The cold weather acts as a natural home inspection here in Indiana. You'll see how well windows keep out the chill, if the heating system is efficient, and how the roof handles snow accumulation. While potential repairs are never ideal, it's better to discover them now than after you've moved in. This upfront knowledge also allows you to negotiate repairs with the seller or adjust your offer accordingly. Remember, a home inspection can save you thousands in the long run! 4. Motivated Sellers and Faster Closings (Maybe Ice Skating, Too!) Sellers listing in winter often have a strong desire to close quickly. This could be due to job relocations, financial changes, or even wanting to move before the next snowstorm! The National Association of Realtors (NAR) found homes sold in December and January in our region typically close 10% faster than peak months. Faster closings mean less time waiting and more time settling into your new home. Plus, with the holidays behind you, winter offers a unique opportunity to explore local traditions like ice skating at the Morris Civic in South Bend or enjoying the winter lights at the Elkhart Environmental Center. 5. More Time with Your Local Realtor With a slower market, your Realtor can dedicate more personalized attention to you. They'll have more time to help you find the perfect home, understand local market trends, and guide you through the negotiation process. This personalized service can make a big difference in your home-buying experience. Bonus Tip: Winter can also mean lower moving costs! Moving companies often offer discounts in the off-season. Ready to Find Your Dream Home in St. Joseph or Elkhart County? Don't let the cold weather hold you back. Winter can be a fantastic time to buy a home in our area. With potentially lower prices, less competition, and motivated sellers, you might just find the perfect place to call your own. Remember, buying a home is a big decision. Consider your personal goals and financial situation when making your choice. But hey, if winter does bring some snowy days, you'll already be in the perfect place to cozy up by the fireplace in your new home!   Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100www.ND-Condos.comTim@TimVicsik.com (574) 329-9587

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The FBI reports a rise in wire fraud schemes, with criminals becoming more skilled at executing these attacks. Today’s fraudsters often use professional-looking emails—complete with proper grammar and email signatures—and various non-email methods such as phone calls, text messages, and chatbots. While these scams require minimal technical skill, they’ve become increasingly convincing. Tools like phishing kits are widely accessible, enabling attackers to craft highly persuasive scams. How Does Real Estate Wire Fraud Happen? In a typical scenario, a cybercriminal compromises an email account using malware. This allows the fraudster to monitor communications and potentially send fraudulent messages. Often operating overseas and beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement, these criminals exploit moments of trust and urgency in real estate transactions. It’s a serious threat, but by staying vigilant and following these steps, you can protect yourself from wire fraud. Step 1: Establish Trusted Contacts Early At the start of your real estate transaction, obtain verified contact information for your Realtor, Lender, and Title Company. Stick to these trusted phone numbers and email addresses throughout the process. Verify that any messages you receive align with this information. Be cautious about phone numbers or contact details appearing in emails, especially if they differ from what you initially received in person. Sophisticated scams often include convincing fake email correspondence. Step 2: Understand the Process and Stick to It Legitimate title companies will never email wire instructions. For example, Title often provides wire transfer details only via fax or snail mail. Always verify instructions with the title company by contacting the trusted number you obtained from your Realtor earlier. Pro Tip: Indiana's Good Funds Law states if you need to bring more than $10,000 to closing, a wire transfer IS REQUIRED.  Reach out to your title company for guidance well in advance. Step 3: Stay Alert to Changes Most reputable title companies never change wire instructions. If you receive an email or message claiming otherwise, it’s fraudulent. Call your title company immediately to confirm any instructions. Be wary of follow-up calls or emails that claim to validate a fraudulent message—these are common tactics used by scammers. Remember, changes to wire instructions, email addresses, or phone numbers are extremely rare. Approach any such changes with suspicion and verify them with a direct phone call to your trusted contact. Step 4: Recognize Timing as a Key Factor Scammers often strike in the final weeks before closing when homebuyers are busy and distracted. They send “urgent” emails pressuring buyers to “act immediately” or “rush delays.” These are clear red flags. Title companies won’t rush you for wire transfers. Fraudsters may also claim there’s been a “change of plans” requiring a down payment before closing. Never respond hastily; instead, verify any such requests with a phone call. Act Quickly if You’re Targeted If you fall victim to wire fraud and authorize a fraudulent transfer, recovering your money can be challenging. Acting swiftly is crucial. Reporting the incident immediately may increase the chances of retrieving some or all of your funds.  The FBI can initiate its Financial Fraud Kill Chain (FFKC) process to help recover funds from international wire transfers if reported within 72 hours. You will also need to contact your local police department and file a report. This step is essential for both legal and insurance purposes. Protect yourself and your investment by staying informed and vigilant. Criminals rely on distraction and urgency—don’t let them take advantage of you.   Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100Tim@TimVicsik.comwww.ND-Condos.com(574) 329-9587  

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What Does Title Insurance Cover? Imagine sunlight streaming onto your patio, highlighting the beauty of your new home. Now, imagine discovering a hidden legal issue tied to the property’s past ownership. That’s where title insurance steps in to protect your investment. Unlike most insurance policies that guard against future events, title insurance shields homeowners from issues tied to the home’s previous owners. While not mandatory for buyers, it’s often required by mortgage lenders and highly recommended for peace of mind. Let’s break down what title insurance covers—and what it doesn’t. What is Title Insurance? When you purchase a home, you’re not just buying the property—you’re also securing the legal right to own it. But what happens if past issues, like unpaid taxes or an undisclosed heir, surface and challenge your ownership? Title insurance acts as a safeguard against such surprises, ensuring your rights and financial investment are protected.  Typically the Seller will choose the Title Company, or the Mortgage Lender if it's a refinance.  If you've had a great experience and you'd like to use your trusted Title Company, ask your Realtor to write it in to your purchase agreement! Title insurance covers: Claims against your ownership rights: Protects you if someone contests your legal ownership of the property. Legal costs: Helps pay for attorneys if you need to defend your title in court. Financial reimbursement: Covers losses related to past issues up to the policy limit. With title insurance, you can focus on making your house a home without worrying about hidden threats to your ownership. What Title Insurance Doesn’t Cover While title insurance is invaluable, it’s not a catch-all. Here are a few key exclusions: New Issues After Policy Issuance: Problems like unpaid contractor liens after your policy starts aren’t covered. Owner-Created Issues: Any title defects caused by you (e.g., taking out a second mortgage and failing to pay). Legal Violations: Noncompliance with zoning, building codes, or other laws. Current Occupants' Rights: Claims from tenants or others occupying the property. Condemnation: Losses due to government action or land being declared unfit for use. Natural Water Rights: Disputes related to lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water on or near the property. Disclosed Restrictions: Covenant rules you agreed to when purchasing the property. What Does Title Insurance Cover? Title insurance protects against issues tied to the property’s history, including: Unpaid property taxes or liens Fraud or forgery in past deeds Conflicting wills or missing heirs Easements or encroachments Improperly recorded documents In short, it covers many potential headaches so you can focus on enjoying your home. Why Title Insurance Matters Protect Your Money: Avoid financial loss tied to previous owners' mistakes. Cover Legal Costs: Defense against ownership challenges can be expensive—title insurance helps with this. Peace of Mind: Feel secure knowing your property rights are protected. Navigating Title Insurance with Confidence A good Title Company understands the importance of safeguarding your investment. Title issues may not always arise, but when they do, having the right coverage can make all the difference.    Timothy VicsikRE/MAX 100www.ND-Condos.com(574) 329-(574) 329-9587Tim@TimVicsik.com

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Apply for Over 65 Property Tax Deductions Discover Two Ways to Save on Your Property Tax Bill Are you a property owner aged 65 or older in South Bend, Indiana? You could be eligible for significant savings on your property tax bill through two key programs: the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction and the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit. Even those buying on a recorded contract can benefit. Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction With the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction, you can enjoy a reduction in your home's assessed value of either $14,000 or half the assessed value, whichever is less. This means a lower assessed value and, ultimately, a smaller property tax bill. Eligibility Requirements: Age: Turned 65 or older by December 31 of the prior year. Surviving Spouse: If your spouse was 65 or older at the time of their death, you must be 60 or older and not remarried. Ownership: Own or be paying on a recorded contract for at least one year. Residency: Live in the property as your primary residence. Income: Combined adjusted gross income of $40,000 or less for the prior year, including the income of your spouse and all others who own or pay rent on the property. Assessed Value: Property assessed at $240,000 or less. Other Deductions: Must not be receiving other property tax deductions except for the mortgage, homestead standard and supplemental deductions, and the fertilizer storage deduction. Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit The Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit is designed to limit how much your property taxes can increase each year. With this credit, your taxes will increase no more than 2 percent annually. Eligibility Requirements: Age: Turned 65 or older by December 31 of the prior year. Homestead Deduction: Must have qualified for the homestead standard deduction on the property this year and last year. Income: Adjusted gross income of $30,000 or less, or a combined adjusted gross income with your spouse of $40,000 or less. Assessed Value: Gross assessed property value of $200,000 or less on the homestead portion of the property. Ownership: Own, be buying on a recorded contract, or have a beneficial interest in the property. Get Started Don't miss out on these valuable savings opportunities. If you meet the eligibility requirements for either the Over 65 or Surviving Spouse Deduction or the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit, you can significantly reduce your property tax burden. For more information or to apply, contact the city-county offices or consult with a local real estate expert like Tim Vicsik at RE/MAX 100. Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100Tim@TimVicsik.com www.ND-Condos.com 

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Homestead Property Assessments in Indiana: 2024 Basics Breaking Down Key Points Property Tax Bills: Homeowners across Indiana are receiving their pay-2024 property tax bills. These bills are based on 2023 property assessments. Payments are due in two installments: May 10th and November 12th, 2024. Notice of Assessment: In April, many residential taxpayers receive a Notice of Assessment (Form 11) from their county assessors. This form establishes the 2024 assessed property value for next year’s (pay-2025) bills. Some counties combine the 2024 assessments and pay-2024 tax bills into one form, including the assessment in the tax comparison statement portion of the bill. Market-Based Assessments: Indiana property taxes are market-based and paid in arrears. Assessments reflect the market value in use as of January of the assessment year. Tax bills are based on the previous year’s assessment. This year’s bills (pay-2024) are determined by 2023 property assessments. Bills are capped at 1% of the homestead’s gross assessed value, per the Indiana Constitution. Additional taxes may be added through school referenda and other voter-approved projects. Appealing Assessments: Homeowners can appeal an assessment before the resulting bills are calculated. Determining Market Value Property Assessments Objective Measures: Assessed values must be tied to “objective measures of market value.” For homestead residences, assessments should generally align with a home’s potential sale price. Assessment Increases: Homeowners might be surprised by increased assessments despite no renovations or improvements. Residential assessments should move with the previous year’s market: In 2022, the median sale price of an existing home in Indiana was $235,000. This price rose 4% to a $242,000 statewide median in 2023. A typical Indiana home’s assessed values would be expected to rise about 4% from January 2023 to January 2024. This increase in the 2024 property assessment would show up in pay-2025 tax bills. Local Market Variations: Housing prices vary dramatically from county to county and even block to block. Assessments reflect local market conditions from year to year. References Indiana Department of Local Government Finance Indiana Property Tax Benefits Market Value in Use Definitions and Guidelines   Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100(574) 329-9587Tim@TimVicsik.com www.ND-Condos.com    

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  Understanding Property Taxes in Indiana: How They Are Calculated, Paid, and Why They're Paid in Arrears Property taxes are a fundamental aspect of homeownership in Indiana, impacting both current homeowners and prospective buyers. To navigate this system effectively, it's essential to grasp how property taxes are calculated, paid, and the reason they are paid in arrears. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand these key aspects. How Property Taxes are Calculated Assessment Process: Property taxes in Indiana are based on the assessed value of the property. County assessors determine this value using factors such as property size, location, and comparable sales in the area. Assessments are typically conducted every few years to ensure fairness and accuracy. Tax Rate: Once the assessed value is determined, property taxes are calculated using a tax rate set by local taxing authorities. These authorities include cities, counties, school districts, and other local entities. The tax rate is expressed as a percentage of the assessed value. Each taxing authority sets its own rate, contributing to the total property tax bill.  View your St Joseph or Elkhart County Tax cards here.  Deductions and Exemptions: Indiana offers various deductions and exemptions that can lower a homeowner’s property tax burden. Examples include the Homestead Deduction for primary residences and the Mortgage Deduction for mortgage interest paid. Why Property Taxes are Paid in Arrears Property taxes in Indiana are paid in arrears, meaning that they are paid after the tax year has ended. Here’s why this system is in place: Assessment Timing: Assessments are conducted periodically (typically every few years). By paying taxes in arrears, homeowners are billed based on the property's assessed value from the previous assessment period. This ensures that taxes are levied on the property’s actual value during that time frame. Budgeting and Planning: Paying taxes in arrears allows homeowners to budget and plan for their tax obligations more effectively. They have a clearer understanding of their tax liabilities based on the previous year’s assessed value.  Estimate your current year tax bill here.  How Property Taxes are Paid Billing and Due Dates: Property tax bills are issued annually by the county treasurer's office. The due dates for property tax payments vary by county but often fall in the spring and fall. Homeowners receive a tax statement outlining the total amount due, including any applicable deductions. Payment Options: Indiana provides several payment options: Direct Payment: Homeowners can pay directly to the county treasurer’s office by mail, in person, or online. Escrow Accounts: Many homeowners with mortgages pay property taxes through an escrow account held by their mortgage lender. The lender collects a portion of the estimated taxes each month as part of the mortgage payment and pays the taxes on the homeowner’s behalf. Penalties for Non-Payment: Failure to pay property taxes on time can result in penalties and interest charges. It’s crucial for homeowners to adhere to payment deadlines to avoid additional costs. Additional Considerations Property Tax Caps: Indiana imposes caps on property tax rates, limiting the amount that property taxes can increase annually. These caps provide stability and predictability for homeowners regarding their property tax liabilities. Appealing Assessments: Homeowners have the right to appeal their property assessment if they believe it is inaccurate or unfair. This involves providing evidence to support their claim and following the county's appeals process. Understanding the intricacies of property taxes in Indiana enables homeowners to manage their financial responsibilities effectively. Whether you’re buying a new home or have lived in Indiana for years, knowing how property taxes are calculated, paid, and why they are paid in arrears ensures you can navigate this aspect of homeownership confidently and responsibly.  Click here for a Glossary of Property Tax Terms.  Tim VicsikRE/MAX 100(574) 329-9587Tim@TimVicsik.com www.ND-Condos.com  

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