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Kari A. Battaglia - Venice Real Estate

Understanding property taxes in Venice Florida

Property taxes in Venice Florida are the backbone of our local government and helps provide services such as police and fire protection, streets and drainage systems, construction and maintenance, environmental regulation, libraries, streetlights, garbage pickup, and parks and recreation. The taxing authorities, not Sarasota County Property Appraiser, have control over the level of taxes through the millage rate.

How do I figure out my property taxes?

Market Value The market value is the appraisal of what a willing buyer would most likely pay for your property (excluding costs of the sale). The property is assessed as of January 1st, so the value reported is a reflection of the previous year's real estate transactions and comparable property values in your area.

Exemptions Your exemptions are deductions that apply to your property for Homestead or other special categories like those for disabled persons or seniors who meet certain income guidelines.

Assessed value Your assessed value is generally the market value limited by the Amendment 10 or "save Our Homes" tax cap. This 1992 amendment to the Florida Constitution limits increases in the value of homesteads (your primary residence) to 3% or less per year.

Taxable Value Your taxable value is the number the appraiser reports to the various taxing authorities and is the assessed value minus exemptions.

Millage Rate Taxing authorities calculate the annual tax rate, called the millage rate by dividing their total budget (their spending) by the total taxable value reported to them. The Millage rate is simply a name for the rate, which the taxing authorities set in order to balance their budgets. Millage is a rate expressed in dollars per thousand (one mill just means you pay one dollar of tax for each $1,000 of taxable value).

Under Florida law, when a taxing authority sets a millage rate higher than the rate which would produce the exact same revenues as the previous year, they must properly advertise their action as a tax increase. This rate, which would result in no change in revenue, is called the rollback rate. As a practical matter taxing authorities are rarely able to adopt the rollback rate, since the cost of government services generally rises with the cost of everything else.

Dates to Remember

January 1 Is the date that determines value; it is also the date for residency and ownership requirements to qualify for Homestead Exemption.

January 1 - March 1 Is the normal filing period for Homestead and other exemptions such as widow/widower, disability, charitable organization, etc.

August Notice of Proposed Property Taxes, called TRIM notices are mailed to all Sarasota County property owners' mid-month. TRIM is an acronym for "Trust in Millage." TRIM notices contain your taxing authorities budget hearings and the dealings for filing petitions with the Value Adjustment Board. The TRIM mailing starts the formal protest period, which is 25 days long. During the protest period, Sarasota County taxpayers can file formal notice to the county Value Adjustment Board to seek to have their assessment changed.

October Value Adjustment Board (VAB) hearings are held.

November Tax bills are mailed by the Barbara Ford-Coates Tax Collector to all Sarasota County property owners of record.

FREEQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Exactly how is my property value determined here in Venice Florida?

For taxation purposes, nearly all property has a value, including land, buildings and tangible personal property used in business. By law, the appraiser must accurately determine fair market value (also called "just' value). To do that, standardized and accepted appraisal practices governed by Florida law and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices are used. While sophisticated computer modeling techniques are used, they also periodically inspect all property. They consider:

  • Recent selling prices of similar properties
  • What it would cost to replace the property and how much depreciation is present
  • How much it costs to operate and maintain the property (commercial only)
  • What rental income the property earns, if any

What if I disagree with the Property Appraiser's value?

Discuss it with the Sarasota County Property Appraiser and they will conduct an informal review. The review can be done any time during the year but most are soon after the TRIM mailing. After TRIM notices are mailed you have 25 days to file a formal protest petition with the Value Adjustment Board.

So the Property Appraiser and Value Adjustment Board are not the same?

They're completely separate by law. The VAB (Value Adjustment Board) is the formal review board. An independent appraiser called a Special Master hears both sides and makes a written recommendation to going to court; the decision of the VAB is final.

What does the "Save our Homes" or Amendment 10 mean to me as a taxpayer?

This is a 1992 amendment to the Florida Constitution that limits the annual increase in the assessed (not market) value of Homesteaded properties to 3% or the National Consumer Price Index, whichever is less.

So Amendment 10 is a tax cap?

Not exactly. It's a limit on the assessed value of the parcel. It's not a limit on the taxes charged to the property. Taxes are a product of the value times the millage rate. The millage rate actually sets the tax level. Tax levels can change more or less than 3%.

What property is affected by "Save our Homes?"

Only properties that have a Homestead Exemption.

What happens when I buy a new home?

The cap is removed anytime ownership changes. A new property owner should file for Homestead which will establish a new value cap on your new home during January 1 - March 1 of the tax year. You can file for a future year as soon as you buy a new home. If you already have Homestead and there is no change to ownership your exemption automatically carries from year to year. Other types of exemptions do require an annual filing.

Is the TRIM notice exactly what I can expect to be billed for November?

No, the TRIM notice is showing you taxes and exemptions, however, the full bill that you will receive in November will also include any special assessments, CDD's, Solid Waste, etc. that are collected by the tax collector for your district.

If I am closing in September or October, why am I paying a full year's taxes, plus escrows for next year?

Most lenders require that any taxes that become due and payable with sixty days of closing be collected and held by the title company until the bill is available in November. The title company will collect an estimated amount of taxes plus assessments from the buyer (Prior to November) and prorate the taxes between the buyer and seller as normal. The escrow amount that you are paying is being sent to your lender in order to accrue for taxes next year.

How does my lender determine my tax escrow amount?

Most lenders use the prior year tax amount for the total amount to be escrowed. Lenders do not normally estimate tax increases unless there is new construction. In November your lender will most likely pay your taxes regardless of the amount you have escrowed and then bill you for any shortages and readjust your escrow for the following year. Upon receipt of your copy of the tax bill or TRIM notice you may contact your lender to receive information on their policy regarding taxes.

Information provided by Ron Greene, Sunbelt Title Agency Business Development Specialist

Contact Kari A. Battaglia, licensed Realtor® in Venice Florida at 941-270-1851 to list your home, answer questions or to help you in your search for homes for sale in Venice Florida. I currently serve customers in Venice Florida, Englewood Florida, Nokomis Florida, South Venice, Laurel, Osprey and North Port Florida communities. As a private landowner, I also have Tennessee properties available in the Chattanooga area. Call or email me to receive a list of Tennessee properties available for sale.

Contact me by email at Kari@DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com. Need information fast, call me direct at 941-270-1851. Copyright©2009. By Kari A. Battaglia. All Rights Reserved.

Kari A. Battaglia, GRI - Realtor®, Broker Associate - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - 331 W Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 - 941-270-1851 direct - 941-484-9715 - office 800-969-1990 toll free - Kari@KariBattaglia.com

www.DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com - view my listings, find valuable community info, links and more

Hidden Dangers of Remodeling Older Homes in Venice Florida

I have been contemplating using "Guest Bloggers" for sometime now and recently have been contacted by Joe Lederman, Awareness Coordinator at the Mesothelioma Cancer Center (www.asbestos.com). Mr. Lederman has been reaching out to the real estate community in efforts to bring to the Homebuyer and Homesellers attention the potentially harmful effects that may be lurking in older homes and what is needed to done to protect themselves. Many homes in the Venice Florida area were built before 1980, so I thought this may be appropriate for our local real estate consumers.

Real Estate Tips on Achieving a Healthy, Efficient & Asbestos free Home

As you may know, homes built before 1980 likely have asbestos insulation in them. When homeowners remodel, they may expose themselves to asbestos, which could lead to a fatal cancer known as mesothelioma. There are many environmentally sustainable, healthy and GREEN ways to insulate your home and this is among the topics we like to discuss. We figured it would be a perfect time to educate people on asbestos exposure and related illnesses.

Florida is known for its palm trees, decadent sandy beaches, warm climate, Disney World and a vast, diverse culture. These characteristics not only make the state of a large tourist destination, but also a destination for potential home buyers.

When searching for a new home or apartment in Venice, Florida, there are are many things to consider and decisions to be made. Newly bought homes are often remodeled and repairs may be needed. Having the assistance of an experienced Venice, FL real estate agent can make all the difference in the many steps that lead to home ownership.

Homes and buildings built before 1980 may still contain asbestos materials. This should not make you jump out of your seat because asbestos exposure can be easily prevented by taking simple precautions. Green alternatives now exist which are safe and cost efficient options to asbestos and other obsolete building materials.

Asbestos Highly utilized for more than a century, asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used heavily in building and construction applications. Its flame resistant and highly durable qualities made it an ideal choice for manufacturers. Asbestos normally appeared as insulation for piping, roofing, siding and flooring in homes. Many homes or buildings built prior to 1980 may still contain asbestos materials.

Exposure can result in the development of related illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. This asbestos-related illness is difficult to treat and diagnose because symptoms may not show up from 20 to 50 years after exposure. This makes a mesothelioma diagnosis a difficult task for physicians.

Healthy Tips & Alternatives If any suspected asbestos is located, the best advice is to leave it alone. If you are having home renovations, performed, do not panic. Again, asbestos that is left un-disturbed will normally pose no threat. If asbestos needs to be removed, it should be performed by licensed abatement contractors. These contractors are trained in the handling and disposal of asbestos in public facilities and homes. Although it may prove to be costly, it is worth the price for achieving a healthy home.

Many locations throughout the United States are swiftly changing their construction practices to suit the environment and the health of human beings.

Sustainability and energy guide many aspects of life in Florida. Many green healthy alternatives to asbestos are available and should be sought out upon removal or renovation. These include the use of cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose. Cotton fiber is quickly becoming a favorite for home builders and renovators. Made from recycled batted material, it is also treated to be fireproof.

Research suggests that these Eco-friendly insulation alternatives can even reduce annual energy costs by 25 percent. The move to a greener lifestyle will build on the change to healthier methods of building products, home remodeling and renovation.

by Joe Lederman, Awareness Coordinator at the Mesothelioma Cancer Center (www.asbestos.com).

Contact Kari A. Battaglia, licensed Realtor® in Venice Florida at 941-270-1851 to list your home, answer questions or to help you in your search for homes for sale in Venice Florida. I currently serve customers in Venice Florida, Englewood Florida, Nokomis Florida, South Venice, Laurel, Osprey and North Port Florida communities. As a private landowner, I also have Tennessee properties available in the Chattanooga area. Call or email me to receive a list of Tennessee properties available for sale.

Contact me by email at Kari@DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com. Need information fast, call me direct at 941-270-1851. Copyright©2009. By Kari A. Battaglia. All Rights Reserved.

Kari A. Battaglia, GRI - Realtor®, Broker Associate - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - 331 W Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 - 941-270-1851 direct - 941-484-9715 - office 800-969-1990 toll free - Kari@KariBattaglia.com

www.DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com - view my listings, find valuable community info, links and more www.VeniceAreaHomesBlog.com - read my blog about news & info for Venice Real Estate www.FloridaMoves.com/Kari.Battaglia- free MLS home search, search for Venice real estate, Nokomis real estate, Englewood real estate and more.

Wordless Wednesday on Thursday, Sunset in Venice Florida

I love living in Venice Florida. I was at the Venice South Jetties yesterday (Wednesday!) at sunset. It is not that often that I take time out to enjoy our town but when I do I realize how beautiful it is to live here. It was so beautiful I wanted to share with everyone one of our many spectacular sunsets.

Sunset at Venice Florida South Jetties

Contact Kari A. Battaglia, licensed Realtor® in Venice Florida at 941-270-1851 to list your home, answer questions or to help you in your search for homes for sale in Venice Florida. I currently serve customers in Venice Florida, Englewood Florida, Nokomis Florida, South Venice, Laurel, Osprey and North Port Florida communities. As a private landowner, I also have Tennessee properties available in the Chattanooga area. Call or email me to receive a list of Tennessee properties available for sale.

Contact me by email at Kari@DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com. Need information fast, call me direct at 941-270-1851. Copyright©2009. By Kari A. Battaglia. All Rights Reserved.

Kari A. Battaglia, GRI - Realtor®, Broker Associate - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - 331 W Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 - 941-270-1851 direct - 941-484-9715 - office 800-969-1990 toll free - Kari@KariBattaglia.com

www.DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com - view my listings, find valuable community info, links and more www.VeniceAreaHomesBlog.com - read my blog about news & info for Venice Real Estate www.FloridaMoves.com/Kari.Battaglia- free MLS home search, search for Venice real estate, Nokomis real estate, Englewood real estate and more.

Buying a home in Venice Florida

1359 Brookside Drive, Venice FL Pinebrook SouthFinding and purchasing a home in Venice that will meet your needs, now and in the years to come, is a significant and often stressful time. My goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible. Here are some tips that you may follow to help make the search for finding your dream home seamless.

Before you start looking for a home, you should ask yourself a few questions:

  1. Where do you want to live?
  2. Do you want to be near schools, shopping or work?
  3. What kind of house would you like (need)?
  4. Are you looking for a particular style?
  5. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?
  6. Do you want a yard?
  7. How much house can you afford?
  8. Have you consulted a Realtor or mortgage lender to determine the size of the mortgage you would qualify for?

Here are a few tips to help you get organized:

  1. Pull a credit report on yourself to make sure the information is accurate. If you find any errors, take steps to correct them immediately.
  2. Get pre-qualified. You can save and eliminate homes that do not fit into your financial budget. Most importantly you will be in a much better negotiating posture when you do find the home that you are looking for. Contact me if you would like speak to our Coldwell Banker Mortgage Advisor.
  3. Browse through real estate advertisements in the newspaper and on www.FloridaMoves.com/Kari.Battaglia. This will give you a good overview of the types of homes that are on the market and what they cost.
  4. Visit open houses on the weekends. It doesn't cost anything to look, and looking at a few different homes might give you ideas for features and amenities you'd like in a house but haven't considered.
  5. Start saving money - you'll need to have cash on hand for a down payment and closing costs.
  6. Don't incur any additional debt. Pay down your credit cards and don't apply for any new ones. Don't make any major purchases on credit - buy the furniture or car later.

13 Saint John Blvd, Boca Royale Golf & Country ClubI can help you determine how much you can afford and provide you with information on homes that may interest you. I will also help you complete all of the necessary forms when it comes time to make an offer.

I know the local Venice real estate market and have been a resident of the Venice Florida area since 1977. I am committed to getting you the best possible price, terms and conditions for you when you are buying a home. My services are FREE to all buyers (I don't work for free, the sellers have already agreed to pay my commission when they listed their home for sale). I guarantee my services with Coldwell Banker's exclusive Buyer Services Guarantee Program. If I do not perform any of the services promised, you may cancel our agreement anytime, at no charge to you. I am just an email or phone call away.

209 Vestavia, Venice Golf & Country Club Venice FL

Contact Kari A. Battaglia, licensed Realtor® in Venice Florida at 941-270-1851 to list your home, answer questions or to help you in your search for homes for sale in Venice Florida. I currently serve customers in Venice Florida, Englewood Florida, Nokomis Florida, South Venice, Laurel, Osprey and North Port Florida communities. As a private landowner, I also have Tennessee properties available in the Chattanooga area. Call or email me to receive a list of Tennessee properties available for sale.

Contact me by email at Kari@DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com. Need information fast, call me direct at 941-270-1851. Copyright©2009. By Kari A. Battaglia. All Rights Reserved.

Kari A. Battaglia, GRI - Realtor®, Broker Associate - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - 331 W Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 - 941-270-1851 direct - 941-484-9715 - office 800-969-1990 toll free - Kari@KariBattaglia.com

www.DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com - view my listings, find valuable community info, links and more www.VeniceAreaHomesBlog.com - read my blog about news & info for Venice Real Estate www.FloridaMoves.com/Kari.Battaglia- free MLS home search, search for Venice real estate, Nokomis real estate, Englewood real estate and more.

Do I need title insurance if I am buying a home in Venice?

1045 Tuscany Blvd, Pelican Point Golf & Country Club Venice FL Owners Title Policy is something that almost everyone will never need, but if you do need it you are going to be glad you have it.

When you buy your home in Venice FL, you Take Title to it. A Title to real estate is basically the rights of ownership recognized and protect by the law. But others may have rights in the property too, and there are over thirty situations in which title losses can occur. Some examples include:

  • A forged will or deed
  • Improper deeds
  • Deeds by minors or incompetent people
  • Undisclosed or missing heirs
  • Fraudulent representatives
  • Invalid divorces
  • Falsifications of public records
  • Lawsuits
  • Unpaid taxes
  • Clerical errors in the records
  • Undiscovered wills
  • Sellers who misrepresent their marital status

You can protect yourself from all these risks. Title insurance is real estate ownership insurance and title insurance guards the purchaser of real estate against the many possibilities of loss. The title underwriting company defends the policyholder in the event your title, within your policy limit - whether those claims are valid or not. And, should the court of property jurisdiction uphold any of the claims, the title underwriter will pay them.

If you are purchasing a home in Venice Florida and the Seller is making payments to the City of Venice or to Sarasota County (i.e.: for a sewer or public water assessment), those payments cannot be assumed by the Buyer. Any assessment imposed by a municipality is a lien against the property and must be satisfied at closing.

If you will be purchasing a condominium in Venice, please be aware of the possible costs to you as the Buyer. These may include maintenance fees, special assessments, transfer fees and reserve escrow account. The condominium association may also require prior approval of Buyer and sometimes a personal interview may be necessary.

Title insurance assures you that your title search information is accurate and guarantees that your new home is free from liens, protects it against title issues and confusion in prior ownership.

Title insurance is a one-time charge that will last as long as you or your heirs have an interest in the property.

If you have any questions about the home buying process in Venice give me a call, I am happy to answer any questions you may have.

Contact Kari A. Battaglia, licensed Realtor® in Venice Florida at 941-270-1851 to list your home, answer questions or to help you in your search for homes for sale in Venice Florida. I currently serve customers in Venice Florida, Englewood Florida, Nokomis Florida, South Venice, Laurel, Osprey and North Port Florida communities. As a private landowner, I also have Tennessee properties available in the Chattanooga area. Call or email me to receive a list of Tennessee properties available for sale.

Contact me by email at Kari@DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com. Need information fast, call me direct at 941-270-1851. Copyright©2009. By Kari A. Battaglia. All Rights Reserved.

Kari A. Battaglia, GRI - Realtor®, Broker Associate - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - 331 W Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 - 941-270-1851 direct - 941-484-9715 - office 800-969-1990 toll free - Kari@KariBattaglia.com

www.DiscoverVeniceRealEstate.com - view my listings, find valuable community info, links and more www.VeniceAreaHomesBlog.com - read my blog about news & info for Venice Real Estate www.FloridaMoves.com/Kari.Battaglia- free MLS home search, search for Venice real estate, Nokomis real estate, Englewood real estate and more.