What is Homestead Exemption?
What is Homestead Exemption?
The Mississippi Tax Commission performs two functions in reference to homestead exemption. The first function is to determine the eligibility of taxpayers who wish to obtain an exemption from ad valorem property taxes. The second function is to reimburse the taxing unit who suffers a tax loss because of its exemption. Homestead Exemption is a privilege offered to eligible taxpayers by the State of Mississippi. It is very important to remember that the exemption is not granted automatically. You must file an application and each taxpayer must qualify for the exemption. You have from January 2nd – April 1st to file your homestead tax exemption. Below are details of how to qualify and what you’ll need to provide when filing. Should you have further questions about any of these details, you can refer to the Homestead Exemption FAQ page found on the ms.gov Department of Revenue website.
In Mississippi, you are elegible to file your Homestead Tax Exemption in 2024 IF any of the following changes were made in 2023:
- You bought property and it is your primary home
- If you sold part of your homestead property
- If you bought more acres and want to add it to the existing homestead
- If you married or divorced, or became widowed
- If you became disabled
- If you celebrated your 65th birthday
There are things you are going to want to have with you when you go to make this process as easy as it can be.
- Recorded deed filed in 2023
- Closing Disclosure
- Social Security numbers for you (and spouse, if applicable)
- Tag numbers of all privately owned vehicles in your name
- If you are 65 or older, Driver’s License or Birth Certificate
- If disabled: TPQY form from SS Administration stating:
- your name and SS number
- Entitlement or eligibility date
The process of filing your Homestead Tax Exemption is very simple. However, if you need any assistance, call your ERA agent!
Deep clean in Spring
~Deep clean in Spring~
Spring is the perfect time to deep clean! Not only is spring cleaning a great way to reset, but additionally, this yearly chore gets rid of the previous year’s accumulated dust, dander, and clutter before allergy season reaches full swing. If Martha Stuart suggest to deep clean in Spring…then I think we should at least try it! 😉
~Ways to tackle the job of spring cleaning~
Cleaning your home from top to bottom takes a lot of effort, but you can make the project more manageable by having your supplies ready and a plan of attack in mind. You can take it room by room of your choice, go from the attic to the basement, or start outdoors and wind your way inside. It is easy to get overwhelmed, so take your time, create a realistic schedule, and focus on one task at a time. You’ll need more than one day if you decide to deep clean your living area and also add in more involved projects, such as the attic, garage, and organizing closets. It will take time, patience, and errort, but is definately worth it! Your mind, body, and soul will thank you when the job is completed.
~Spring cleaning supplies~
- Bucket
- Mop
- Vacuum
- Duster
- Microfiber cloths
- Sponges
- Reuseable spray bottle
- All-purpose cleaner
- White distilled vinegar
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
~Tasks you’ll want to accomplish~
- Declutter: Go through belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard.
- Dust: Wiping down surfaces, furniture, and fixtures to remove accumulated dust.
- Vacuum and mop floors: Clean carpets, rugs, and hard floors to remove dirt and grime.
- Wash windows: Clean windows inside and out to remove dirt and streaks.
- Clean appliances: Wipe down kitchen appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, and microwave, and cleaning filters and vents.
- Organize closets and storage spaces: Rearrange items, folding clothes, and organize belongings to maximize space and accessibility.
- Clean bedding and linens: Wash sheets, pillowcases, towels, and other linens to freshen them up.
- Disinfect surfaces: Use disinfectants to clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
- Clean outdoor spaces: Sweep patios, decks, and porches, and tidy up the yard or garden area.
- Inspect for repairs: Check for any damage or issues that need to be addressed, such as leaks, cracks, or broken fixtures.
~Spring is a great time to sell your home~
Spring also may be the perfect time for you to sell your home and get a fresh start in a new home locally or even in a total new area! Along with starting something new in your life, your home will also photograph beautifully after being freshly cleaned and organized. If you need more advice on how to get your home ready to sell this season, give one of our expert Realtors® a call!
Spring cleaning is not only about physical cleanliness but can also have wonderful psychological benefits, such as reducing stress and creating a sense of renewal and accomplishment. The idea of starting fresh as nature begins to bloom and flourish in the spring season just feels right. Spring cleaning truely is good for the mind, body, and soul.
Reasons you should invest in Starkville, MS real estate
Considering our status as a college town with a growing population and diverse economy, there are many reasons you should invest in Starkville, MS real estate. It can be a very promising opportunity, and here are some factors to consider:
- Local Economy: Starkville is home to Mississippi State University, which serves as a significant economic driver for the area. Consider the stability and growth potential of industries such as education, healthcare, technology, and agriculture, which contribute to the local economy.
- Rental Demand: There is a consistent demand for rental properties in Starkville due to the large student population attending Mississippi State University. When considering the reasons to invest in Starkville, MS real estate, analyze the vacancy rates, rental yields, and rental trends in different neighborhoods to identify areas with strong rental demand and potential for rental income.
- Property Types: Starkville offers a variety of property types for investment. These include single-family homes, multi-family properties, student housing, and commercial real estate. Our knowledgeable agents will help you evaluate the pros and cons of each property type based on your investment goals, budget, and risk tolerance.
- Location: Location plays a crucial role in real estate investment success. Research different neighborhoods in Starkville to identify areas with desirable amenities, low crime rates, good school districts, and potential for appreciation. Proximity to Mississippi State University can also influence property values and rental demand.
- Market Trends: Stay informed about market trends, including home prices, inventory levels, and sales activity in Starkville. Monitor changes in the real estate market and economic indicators to identify emerging opportunities and potential risks. We post quarterly market updates on our social media to share this information on Starkville and including all 7 counties in the Golden Triangle region.
- Financial Considerations: Calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) for properties in Starkville by analyzing rental income, operating expenses, financing options, and expected appreciation. Consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to assess the financial feasibility of your investment strategy.
- Property Management: Determine whether you’ll manage the property yourself or hire ERA Town & Campus Realty as your potential property managers. Consider the responsibilities involved in property management, such as tenant screening, maintenance, rent collection, and legal compliance.
- Legal and Regulatory Factors: Familiarize yourself with local laws, zoning regulations, landlord-tenant laws, and tax implications related to real estate investment in Starkville. Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements to avoid potential liabilities and penalties.
Before making any investment decisions, conduct thorough research, consult with your local ERA real estate professionals who are experts with the Starkville market. By taking a strategic approach and staying informed, you can make informed investment decisions and potentially achieve long-term success when you’ve found the perfect reasons to invest in Starkville, MS real estate market.
Houses For Rent in Starkville, MS
Houses For Rent in Starkville, MS – Currently Listed by ERA Town & Campus Realty
Finding houses for rent in Starkville, MS can be a daunting task. Given the number of people that are associated with Mississippi State University residing in Starkville, rentals can be hard to locate. Most successful home searches occur months in advance of the start of the school year in August. Here are some tips to help with your rental property search in Starkville. As always, you can contact our office and ask for an updated list of available properties.
- Online Rental Platforms: Websites like Realtor.com, Rent.com, and Apartments.com allow you to search for rental properties by location, price range, and other criteria. You can specify Starkville, MS, as your location and filter the results to show houses for rent.
- Local Real Estate Agencies: Contact real estate agencies in Starkville directly. ERA Town & Campus Realty has listings for rental properties, including houses. You can find these agencies through an online search or by visiting their offices.
- Classified Ads: Check local newspapers or online classified ads such as Craigslist for rental listings in Starkville. Sometimes, landlords and property managers post ads directly in these publications.
- Social Media: Find companies like ERA Town & Campus Realty on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and many other channels. They often share rental listings or may know of available properties through word of mouth.
- Drive Around: Take a drive or walk around neighborhoods in Starkville and look for “For Rent” signs. Some landlords may not advertise online and rely on signage to attract tenants.
- University Resources: If you’re a student or affiliated with Mississippi State University, check university bulletin boards, websites, or housing offices for rental listings geared towards students.
- Word of Mouth: Let friends, family, and colleagues know that you’re looking for a rental in Starkville. They might know someone who is renting out a property or can provide useful leads.
By utilizing these methods, you should be able to find a variety of houses for rent in Starkville, MS, and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Here is a short list of addresses currently available for rental starting in August of 2024 from ERA Town & Campus Realty, (662) 615-6077.