[Bruce]

Important Information and Strategies Regarding Illinois Property Taxes.

Illinois Property Tax Cap

Illinois does not impose a statewide cap on how much property taxes can rise yearly, but some counties and municipalities have their limits. For example, in certain areas, the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL) restricts increases in property tax extensions to either 5% or the inflation rate, whichever is lower.

Age-Based Property Tax Exemptions

In Illinois, seniors are entitled to exemptions from property taxes, which only partially eliminate those taxes. The Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption reduces the equalized assessed value of a home owned by persons aged 65 years or older. Under the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Exemption, the assessed value can be frozen if household income falls below certain levels.

Although there is no age at which all types of property tax are stopped, individuals may significantly reduce their financial obligations towards such payments.

Fighting Against High Property Tax Reassessment

To contest an assessment made on your property by Cook County Board’s Assessor, please follow these steps:

• Review Assessment Notice: Check that everything mentioned within it is correct.
• File an Appeal: Lodge your appeal with either the Cook County Assessor’s Office or the Board of Review before the deadline expires.
• Gathering Evidence: Take recent sale prices of comparable properties along with descriptions and pictures as proof.
• Professional Help: If necessary, hire a consultant specializing in real estate law who will guide you through this process​ (Home Buying Institute).

Effects Of A 41 Percent Increase By The Cook County Assessor’s Office

A huge jump like 41 percent might mean massive changes in what will eventually appear on our bills unless something else happens. This includes such as adjusting rates accordingly when necessary. This could otherwise lead us into trouble since we would be forced to pay more than we should have otherwise.

For instance, let’s say that my house was previously valued at $200k. It’s worth $282k after reassessment, so I will have a higher tax bill because the state doesn’t care whether I can afford it.

Why Do Property Values And Taxes Go Up?

There are various reasons behind these phenomena. This includes increased market values caused by high demand coupled with favorable conditions for buyers and sellers alike. Local governments are spending much money, mainly on taxes, against their jurisdictions’ real estate holdings. Periodic reviews are done periodically, and appraisers update records reflecting changes over time regarding fair market value estimates applicable throughout the area served by said assessor office(s) involved today.

Chicago Suburbs Homeowners Impact

The reassessment should see significant property tax bills increase from homeowners around cities such as Chicago and surrounding suburbs. This is because they reflect rising costs associated with providing public services needed due mainly to growing populations residing therein together with other factors too numerous mention here but obvious nonetheless.

Options If You Can’t Afford The Increase

Some counties allow people who cannot afford steep hikes in their annual tax payment options to be available through a limited scope. Options include installing installment plans. Installment plans work when one pays off debt gradually over time instead of all at once upfront. Additionally, perks provided under various programs specifically targeting low-income households should be explored before considering selling off valuable assets acquired through hard work over many years. The only option left would involve moving out altogether. Moving out isn’t an ideal situation for anybody who wants to find themselves facing ever again after realizing what happened next door neighbors last summer. Last summer when prices skyrocketed overnight without warning signs anywhere near-visible and anywhere near during daylight hours. Either way, we possibly avoid becoming victims ourselves. As long we keep our eyes peeled and watch closely for any changes happening around constantly vigilant and always ready to act fast before it’s too late​.

Avoiding Paying Property Taxes In Illinois is Completely Impossible.

However, There Are Ways To Manage the Burden. One example is moving somewhere cheaper and lifestyle changes.

National Property Tax Comparison

Few states can match Illinois’ property tax rates, the primary source of funds for local services and education​​.

Owner-Occupant vs. Investment Property Taxes

Owner-occupant: Can qualify for homestead exemptions and other relief.

Investment property: Typically taxed at a higher rate without owner-occupant exemptions.

In Summary of Reassessment of Property Values in Illinois

For homeowners in Cook County and other high-tax areas of Illinois, understanding property taxes is important. Awareness of reassessment procedures, available exemptions, and appeal options will help reduce your overall tax burden.

It’s best to consult with a lawyer or professional specializing in property taxes to get specific advice tailored to your case.

[Bruce]

Lowering the total credit usage ratio is important to enhance credit scores, particularly for mortgages. Here’s a plan:

General Strategy:

The aim is to reduce overall utilization below 30%, preferably less than 10%.

Priority:

Start with cards closest to their limits first, regardless of the limit amount. This method will reduce individual card utilization faster.

Specific Suggestions:

Begin with these cards (100% or close to 100% utilized):

• Discover ($498/$500).
• Capital One ($470/$500).
• Credit One ($490/$500).
• Trump Card ($4,000/$4000).
• Credit Plus ($3,490/$3,500).
• Mission Lane ($1498/$1,500).

Then move on:

• Self Visa ($1,500/$1,490) has exceeded the limit and should be dealt with quickly.
• Journey Card ($2,130/$2,200).
• Buddy Visa ($1,500/$1,600).

Balancing Act:

Paying off smaller balance cards is a quick win. However, attacking larger balance ones (like Trump Card & Credit Plus) will have a greater impact on the overall utilization ratio.

Target Utilization:

Aim to get each card under 30% utilization, then work for 10% or less.

Alternative Strategies:

Ask for credit limit increases on cards showing good payment history.

Consider consolidating some balances with a personal loan, which could improve the credit mix and lower utilization.

Timing:

Credit score updates can be fast once balances are reported. Most card issuers report to bureaus monthly, often on statement closing date(s).

Consistency:

Keep consistently low balances. Don’t let them creep back up after paying down.

Remember:

This approach concentrates on usage. Maintaining a perfect payment record is also very important. Low usage combined with a perfect payment history should significantly boost your score.

Given the current middle score of 525 and the goal 640, achieving the target might take several months of consistent balance reduction plus perfect payments. Regularly monitor progress and adjust strategy as necessary.

[Bruce]

Differences Between AXEN Mortgage and NEXA Mortgage

Ownership and Coverage in Common

The same people own AXEN Mortgage and NEXA Mortgage, two of America’s largest mortgage brokers, licensed in 48 states plus DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.

NEXA Mortgage

Summary:

Established: In 2017, Michael Kortas, the CEO and President of NEXA and AXEN Mortgage, founded the company to offer various mortgages and superior service.

Size and Reach: Amongst the biggest mortgage brokers nationwide, they have extensive licensing throughout multiple states and territories.

Services:

Product Offerings: NEXA Mortgage offers a broad range of loan products, such as conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo loans, and non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) products.

Customer Service: This company emphasizes excellent customer service and support and endeavors to make it easier for borrowers by simplifying their mortgage process.

Technology and Innovation: It has adopted advanced technology platforms that integrate home financing applications with approvals to accelerate this procedure while making it efficient and, thus, user-friendly.

Target Market:

Various Borrowers’ Profiles: This program targets different types of borrowers, from first-time homeownership programs to experienced investors’ portfolio management needs.

National Reachability: Wide coverage across USA mainland territories like Puerto Rico or even further southwards towards the US Virgin Islands, where accessibility remains high mainly because many people live there permanently. Hence, demand tends to be higher there than elsewhere, too far away from continental landmasses, thus making it difficult to get these services.

[Bruce]

Tommy and Maria: An Account of Unyielding Allegiance

The Connection Amidst Tommy And Maria

In the village of San Donaci, located in the province of Brindisi, Italy, an elderly Italian woman named Maria Lochi adopted a German Shepherd named Tommy. She discovered him as a stray dog and took him home, where she loved, cared for, and sheltered him. They became inseparable friends. Maria spent all her time with Tommy by her side. This relationship showed how deeply a pet can fall in love with its owner.

Maria’s Dedication

Every Sunday morning at Santa Maria Assunta Church— a small village local church— the 57-year-old devout catholic lady attended mass service there without fail. Her loyal friend never left her one bit and waited faithfully at the entrance throughout the entire duration until she came back from within, having finished attending Mass. The villagers get used to seeing Tommy’s faithful act of waiting.

Maria’s Death

Her funeral service was conducted at the same church where she used to worship weekly before dying in 2012, aged 57 years old. Next to her casket stood their beloved companion, who had been abandoned once again forever. This time around, it’s too far gone. He forever lost the only family member he had known since he was born. So long ago, Maria found him wandering alone, hungry and frightened, always trembling and now smiling happily. Alive and warm. Safe and loved. Needed, wanted, cherished, valued, appreciated, respected, desired, and believed. Cared for and admired as well as trusted. Worshipped and followed obeyed imitated respected gratitude. Thankfulness and appreciation. Recognition acknowledgment and awareness realization. Knowledge and understanding perception insight. Consciousness and enlightenment.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/f9iO0Zh4nlQ

[Bruce]

Loyalty, intelligence, and strong attachment to their owners are the key features of German Shepherds. Below are a few true but heart-touching stories that prove these qualities:

Capitán’s watch:

Miguel Guzmán passed away in 2006 in Argentina. After the funeral, his German shepherd Capitán disappeared. The family found him in the cemetery, sitting atop Miguel’s grave. Until he died in 2017, Capitán spent most of his days at his owner’s resting place, sometimes returning home for food or attention.

Talero’s final duty:

In Colombia, a police dog named Talero saved his handler’s life during an ambush by detecting attackers and alerting its partner before being shot at himself. While doing so, he still protected him until help came since it got fatally injured anyway.

Rex the hero:

Javier Mercado was alone at his Washington state house when burglars broke in. A Rex fought them off, taking bullets for it but suffering multiple gunshot wounds himself in the process, which gave Javier enough time to hide and call for help, thus saving his own life ultimately.

Lexy’s Devotion:

After her military veteran owner committed suicide following post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, Lexy refused to leave where she found him dead even after first responders arrived there who consequently discovered that she had stayed guarding over not only her now late master’s corpse but also everything else around including some personal belongings etcetera so as much such showing loyalty even beyond death itself can allow certain dogs like Lexy go.

Buddy’s Sacrifice:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/54tMI3F2uV8

youtube.com

Captain's Unbreakable Bond: A Dog's Love Beyond Death! 🐾❤️

In 2005, Miguel adopted Captain, a loyal German Shepherd. After Miguel's passing, Captain's unwavering devotion stunned everyone. For 12 years, he spent his ...

[Bruce]

Yes, I have heard this sentiment. Liking people and having countless friends will bring joy and fun to all. However, life is different. Often, your human friends and family members will turn on you. People lie, cheat, steal, turn on you, and often take advantage of you no matter how close their relationship is. Dogs and animals DO NOT. Dogs and most pets will give you unconditional love. They do not know how to manipulate you and take advantage of you. Many people have the best relationship with a trusted, loyal, caring, four-legged furry friend: Their dog.

The saying implies that people should value their privacy more and spend time alone, in tranquility, and with nature rather than with others. Here are some of my thoughts on that:

Introversion vs Extroversion: Some individuals naturally prefer less social interaction and more alone time.

Misanthropy: There can be different reasons why someone may strongly dislike humanity.

Nature connection: Many people find peace and contentment in natural environments rather than cities or towns.

Affinity for Animals: Certain individuals relate to animals more than humans because they believe animals love without conditions or judgments.

Privacy Concerns: The desire for personal space grows as the world becomes increasingly connected.

Stress Reduction: Rural or isolated living can alleviate many problems associated with proximity to neighbors.

Freedom: Living apart from others can offer independence from social expectations and norms.

Quiet enjoyment: More peace and calm are often found in less populated areas.

Environmental concerns: Some want to live without disturbing habitats much.

Simplicity: Living away from others could represent a simpler life for some.

Though tempting, it is worth mentioning that total seclusion has its drawbacks. These include, but are not limited to, mental health implications and practicality. We humans are social beings at heart—albeit to different degrees.

If you’re ever thinking about isolating yourself further from society, consider all the pros and cons, like how you will cope mentally with such a situation and what necessary services you will need.

[Bruce]

I know that you love the Chevy C8 Corvette. It’s a great car, with high performance and a relatively cheap price compared to most supercars. Here is everything you asked for on trims, options, etc., of the 2024 C8 Corvette.

Trims and Pricing (2024 model year, prices are approximate):

Stingray:

• 1LT: Base model – $66,300
• 2LT: Mid-range – $73,300
• 3LT: Top-range – $77,800

Z06:

• 1LZ: Base Z06 – $110,000
• 2LZ: Mid-range Z06 – $117,000
• 3LZ: Top-range Z06 – $121,000

E-Ray:

• 1LZ: Base E-Ray – $104,000
• 2LZ: Mid-range E-Ray – $111,000
• 3LZ: Top-range E-Ray – $115,000

Convertible versions typically add about $7k to the price.

Main Differences:

LT trims (Stingray):

• Mainly vary in interior features/materials used but include things like heated/vented seats & upgraded audio systems as you move up trims.
• High-performance naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 producing 670 horsepower (hp).
• All-wheel drive hybrid that combines an electric motor with Stingray’s V8 engine.

Special Editions:

• ZR1 (It has yet to be released, but it is an ironically top-performing model).
• Z07- A performance package available on the Z06 that adds more aggressive aerodynamics & track-focused upgrades.

Aftermarket Versions:

Callaway and Hennessey both offer increased horsepower models and other performance enhancements. Prices can vary significantly depending on the modifications made to the car mechanically or cosmetically.

Factory Upgrades:

• Various appearance packages (carbon fiber bits, etc.).
• Performance exhaust systems.
• Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
• Front lift system for clearing speed bumps.
• Competition sport seats.
• Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on what is being purchased.

Production Numbers:

Exact production numbers aren’t typically released. However, Chevrolet has been known to produce tens of thousands, if not more, of C8 Corvettes yearly since its release. The car has been in high demand since its release, which means that there are often waiting lists for them at dealerships.

Investment Potential:

While the C8 Corvette has held its value well so far, and especially limited editions like the Z06 have increased in value over sticker price, it is still not considered an investment vehicle like some other limited-production exotics are known to be. However, they will depreciate slower than most mass-produced cars because they are faster & more desirable overall.

Buying Advice:

• Consider what features matter most when picking a trim level.
• You should test drive different versions of the car so you can feel how much quicker each one is compared to another while driving them back-to-back.
• Be prepared for potential waiting lists at most dealerships.
• Especially ones located near big cities or selling many performance cars regularly, such as Chevy Dealerships near race tracks.…

Keep future maintenance costs in mind. These cars tend to need more frequent repairs than average vehicles. This is mainly due to their higher performance levels being used regularly by owners who enjoy driving their fast cars quickly around corners, etc.

A Z06 or Stingray with the Z51 package would best suit track use because they have larger brakes and tires. Plus, other performance upgrades were designed specifically for racing purposes behind them, unlike regular models, which were built with comfortable highway cruising primarily in mind, etc.

Remember, prices and availability may vary depending on where you live and which dealer(s) you contact. Contact your local Chevrolet dealer(s) for the most accurate, up-to-date information regarding pricing/options/availability, etc…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrU8Tu6-7O4&ab_channel=ChevyDude

[Bruce]

This is a comprehensive look at the qualifications for California’s largest down payment assistance programs:

CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program:

Eligibility Standards:

• First-Time Homebuyer: You must be a first-time buyer (meaning you haven’t owned a home in the last three years).
• Minimum Credit Score: 640 for traditional loans, 660 for FHA loans.
• Income Limits: The maximum income allowed depends on the county and the number of people in your household.
• Generally, it can’t exceed what CalHFA sets as the county limit.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): The highest DTI ratio that will fly is 45%.
• Property Requirements: Only single-family homes and approved condos/PUDs are accepted — but some manufactured housing works, too.
• Repayment: Payment is deferred until you sell or refinance the house or pay off your mortgage.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes: You have to take an approved homebuyer education course.

CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP):

Eligibility Standards:

• First-Time Homebuyer: Yes, you must be a first-time buyer.
• Minimum Credit Score: 640.
• Income Limits: Same as CalHFA MyHome but varies by county and household size.
• DTI: Maximum DTI of 45%.
• Property Requirements: Same as CalHFA MyHome.
• Repayment: Deferred payment.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes Required.

GSFA Platinum Program

• Eligibility Standards: First-time homebuyers are not required.
• Minimum Credit Score: 640 for FHA, VA, and USDA loans. 660 for conventional loans.
• Income Limits: Vary by county and program guidelines.
• DTI: Max DTI of 45%.
• Property Requirements: Must be the primary residence — single-family homes, 2-4 units, condos, and manufactured homes.
• Repayment: As a non-repayable grant.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes Not required but recommended.

California Homebuyer’s Downpayment Assistance: Program (CHDAP): Eligibility Standards:

• First-Time Homebuyer: Yes, you must be a first-time buyer.
• Minimum Credit Score: 640 FICO.
• Income Limits: Varies by county and household size.
• DTI: Maximum DTI of 45%.
• Property Requirements: Same as CalHFA MyHome.
• Repayment: Deferred payment.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes Required.

City and County-Specific Programs:

Los Angeles (LIPA and MIPA):

Eligibility Standards:

• First-Time Homebuyer: Yes.
• Minimum Credit Score: Typically 640.
• Income Limits for LIPA: Cannot exceed 80% of the area median income (AMI). They vary for MIPA.
• DTI Ratio: Typically up to 45%.
• Property Requirements: Must be within the city limits and meet property standards.
• Repayment: Deferred payment is due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes Required.

San Francisco (DALP):

Eligibility Standards:

• First-Time Homebuyer: Yes.
• Minimum Credit Score: Typically 640.
• Income Limits: Can’t exceed 120% of the AMI.
• DTI Ratio: Typically up to 45%.
• Property Requirements: Must be within the city limits.
• Repayment: Deferred payment is due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
• First-Time Homebuyer Classes Required.

San Diego (SDHC)

• Eligibility Standards: First-Time Homebuyers Only.
• Education for House Buyers: Nearly all call for completing a home-buying course, particularly among those purchasing their first home.
• Time of Consent:

Generally, it takes several weeks to several months to qualify and receive approval for down payment aid; this may vary depending on the program and an applicant’s financial condition.

To learn more about each program in detail or determine specific eligibility requirements, please visit their websites or contact the local housing authority.

[Bruce]

Down payment assistance programs are available all over California to help homebuyers—especially those purchasing their first house. Here are the main ones:

CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program:

Summary: Provides a deferred-payment junior loan for down payment and closing costs.

Eligibility: Should be a first-time homebuyer with income and property qualifications.

Loan Amount: Up to 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value, whichever is less.

Repayment: Deferred until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.

CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP):

Summary: Offers a zero-interest loan for down payment and closing costs.

Eligibility: Must be a first-time homebuyer using CalHFA FHA loans.

Loan Amount: Up to 3% of the first mortgage loan amount.

Repayment: Deferred until the mortgage is paid off, sold, or refinanced.

GSFA Platinum Program

Summary: It gives non-repayable grants that help with down payment and closing cost assistance.

Eligibility: Open to low-to-moderate income individuals; does not exclude first-time homebuyers.

Grant Amount: Can go up as high as 5% of the primary mortgage loan amount.

Repayment: No repayment necessary!

California Homebuyer’s Downpayment Assistance Program (CHDAP)

Summary: Provides deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3% of purchase price or appraised value for down payment purposes only.

Eligibility: Geared towards low- to moderate-income people buying their first house ever!

Loan Amount: As much as 3% of the purchase price can be borrowed through this program alone!

Repayment Plan Options/Requirements: None until property sold; refinanced or paid in full – then due in full w/interest added back retroactive from origination date (OUCH).

City and County Programs

Los Angeles: LIPA (Low Income Purchase Assistance Program) & MIPA (Moderate Income Purchase Assistance Program) offer loans for down payments and closing costs.

San Francisco: DALP (Downpayment Assistance Loan Program) – provides a loan for down payment assistance that must be repaid upon resale or refinancing.

San Diego: SDHC First-Time Homebuyer Program – provides down payment and closing cost assistance loans.

Federal programs

FHA Loans – while not exclusive to California, FHA loans often work hand-in-hand with state/local grants, which require less money upfront than traditional mortgages. Applicants can also get approved more easily if they have poor credit scores due in part to the there is no private mortgage insurance needed on these types of deals either! The only drawback is that it limits how much one can borrow based on one income level, but is it still worth looking into if this affects your situation since every little bit helps when buying a new place, right?

VA Loans:

VA Loans are available for veterans, active service members, and eligible surviving spouses. There are no down payment requirements, and they can be used in conjunction with local assistance programs.

How to Use Down Payment Assistance Programs Strategically:

Research Local Programs: Check city/county housing agencies’ websites or call them directly for information about what’s available where you live/work/play/eat/sleep/etcetera (you get it).

Combine Programs If Possible: Some assistance options can be combined, which may increase the amount of help offered overall; ask lenders or program administrators if this is allowed under certain circumstances, such as low-income households, etc., and so forth… just kidding. I know no other examples at the moment, but maybe somebody else does. Bueller?

Meet Eligibility Requirements: Know what’s required before applying anywhere; otherwise, nobody has time for that!

Work with Knowledgeable Lender(s): Choose wisely by selecting professionals who know their stuff, especially regarding these types of deals that require specialized knowledge not typically possessed by average Joes off the street. Eighty percent of the borrowers at Gustan Cho Associates could not qualify at other mortgage companies.