An escrow account is where you can put money to ensure that your real estate taxes get paid on time. Escrow accounts may be managed by either a mortgage company or the homeowner himself. Putting money in escrow means to set money aside in this account for real estate taxes. Learn the pros and cons of who should manage an escrow account.
Ownership Of Property Questioned During Divorce
Even if you are married, you can own title in your own name. You can also own title in the name of a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or even in a trust. As a general rule, property that is purchased during a marriage might give the spouse rights in that property. Whether the property was purchased in escrow probably doesn't matter. The escrow agent is only obligated to follow the instructions in the agreement to close the transaction and does not have a duty to advise the buyer or the seller as to the merits or pitfalls of the transaction.
Consider Real Estate Market When Making Investment
When you're considering buying an investment property that is pre-construction you need to look at the deal carefully. Certain areas of the country are awash in real estate investment properties such as condominiums. What do you need to consider if you're buying investment property with hopes of flipping it?
Property Tax On Home In Foreclosure
When a bank forecloses on a property the property owner remains responsible for the property taxes. Banks set up tax escrow accounts to pay property taxes, but when home owners fail to make mortgage payments the escrow money may be used to make mortgage payments. If there's no escrow account, the home owner has direct responsibility for paying property taxes.
Real Estate Agent Changes Fee In Escrow Papers
When you work with a real estate agent, he or she may promise you a certain fee schedule. What can you do if the real estate agent changes the fee schedule after your verbal agreement? You can call the agent's managing broker and the association of Realtors in your state.
Refund Of Money Held In Escrow
Many homeowners pay money into escrow for their taxes and home owner's insurance. When the borrower pays off the loan in full, the borrower is entitled to a refund of all money held by the lender for both the real estate taxes and insurance premiums. Generally, Federal regulations require lenders to return the funds within a month or two.
Paying Property Taxes Without Escrow Account
A mortgage lender wants to make sure that real estate taxes are always paid. If the real estate tax bill for your home isn't paid, the house could be sold to someone who agreed to pay the taxes owed and you and the lender could be left out in the cold. You could lose your home and the lender could lose its interest in the home. In some circumstances, however, lenders will waive the requirement of a tax escrow. The lender must feel assured that you will pay the property taxes, and in some states you must fulfill certain requirements.