Category: Home Owner Tips

St. Johns County Property Taxes and Your Mortgage Payment

Short answer: Two county offices handle your property taxes. The St. Johns County Property Appraiser values your home and grants exemptions, and the St. Johns County Tax Collector bills and

Volusia County Property Taxes and Your Mortgage Payment

If you have a mortgage, you most likely pay your Volusia County property taxes a month at a time through an escrow account, and your servicer pays the bill each

How Do You Build Equity in a Home?

Home equity is your home’s current value minus what you still owe on your mortgage and any other liens. You build it by paying down your loan balance, by putting

A Fall Checklist for Homeowners: Budget and Home Care

Use this fall checklist to review your mortgage and budget, service heating systems, clear gutters, check the roof and plan ahead for year-end finances.

Fall Homeowner Checklist: Safety, Mortgage and Year-End Prep

Use the fall season to tune up your home and finances: safety prep for trick-or-treaters, a mortgage review, tax records and a plan for home projects.

HELOC, Cash-Out Refinance or 203(k)? Paying for Home Projects

Comparing ways to finance a home project? See how a HELOC, cash-out refinance and FHA 203(k) loan work, who each one suits and how to plan your renovation.

Hurricane Season Prep for Homeowners: Insurance, Savings and More

Protect your home and your finances during hurricane season. Review insurance, flood coverage, storm prep, savings and what to do if you need help.

Using a Cash-Out Refinance to Pay for Home Improvements

Planning a remodel? Learn how a cash-out refinance works, when it may make sense for home improvements, and how to plan your project before you apply.

Buying a Home and Becoming Part of a New Community

Buying a home means joining a neighborhood. See the main steps from pre-approval to closing, plus easy ways to connect with neighbors after you move in.

Rainy Season Ready: Protecting Your Home’s Exterior

Heavy rain can find every weak spot in a home. Learn how to check gutters, roof, windows, siding and yard grading to keep water out and protect your home.