Debra Calnan
Debra Calnan, Lamacchia Realty, Inc.Phone: (508) 282-1458
Email: [email protected]

Understanding the relationship between PITI & property taxes

by Debra Calnan 04/24/2023

PITI is an acronym for principal, interest, taxes and insurance. In real estate, it's used by lenders to estimate your qualifications for a mortgage. One of the key variables in the formula is property taxes, which vary by location and individual home. But how do property taxes affect your PITI ratio? Here is a basic explanation to help:

Property taxes & your home's value

Property taxes are calculated based on several variables. One of the variables is the value of your home, which can be more complicated than just the purchase price. A home's assessed value is the value decided by tax assessors and can be adjusted as often as once per year. Fair market value, however, is much more fluid and depends on the value of surrounding homes, the local economy and more.

In addition to home value, property taxes are determined by a local tax rate. You can find out your tax rate from your local tax assessor or municipality records online. Other factors like appraisal value can also affect your property taxes, especially if your professional appraisal is much higher or lower than the assessed amount.

Why taxes matter to lenders

Property taxes matter to lenders because they make up part of your PITI. This combination of numbers can help lenders determine your eligibility for a mortgage because it represents a large portion of your overall financial situation. Your property taxes combined with other expenses and your debt-to-income ratio allow lenders to determine how much money you can afford to borrow without risk to them.

Knowing your PITI can help you make more informed financial decisions when buying or refinancing a home. If you're interested in learning more, consulting a lender or tax professional is a great way to begin.

About the Author
Author

Debra Calnan

Hi, I am Debra Calnan, I have been an active member of my community for over 30 years and I am so excited to be turning that community focus toward Real Estate. My decision to enter the field of Real Estate evolved from a life long love of helping others and a desire to be part of a business that helps guide them through one of the biggest investments of their lives. I enjoy helping people Sell their home and Buyers find the right home and guide them through the process to make those dreams become a reality.

I am down to earth, hard-working and a person of integrity. I am also dedicated to great client services. Allow Lamacchia Realty to guide you through the real estate process. We are here to help make the process go as smooth and stress-free as possible. We think of our clients like family and hope that our first transaction turns into a long term relationship where you will want to refer me to your family and friends.