Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
Separate hurricane insurance is not required in the Triangle.
That is correct. However, flooding in low-lying areas remains a concern. Don't rely solely on the government-published flood maps when buying a property. The map-makers are scrambling to catch up with reality. The combination of warmer temperatures (which lead to increased precipitable water), conversion of woodlands to impervious surfaces as a result of development, and the silting-up of flood control lakes is causing an increased risk of flooding. So far, this has been an issue mainly downstream from the Triangle. But if we get another Fran or Floyd event with 10 sudden inches of rain in the watershed north of the Triangle, we could be in for a nasty situation.
That is correct. However, flooding in low-lying areas remains a concern. Don't rely solely on the government-published flood maps when buying a property. The map-makers are scrambling to catch up with reality. The combination of warmer temperatures (which lead to increased precipitable water), conversion of woodlands to impervious surfaces as a result of development, and the silting-up of flood control lakes is causing an increased risk of flooding. So far, this has been an issue mainly downstream from the Triangle. But if we get another Fran or Floyd event with 10 sudden inches of rain in the watershed north of the Triangle, we could be in for a nasty situation.
And, soils types matter. I like the privacy buffer and natural environment experience of a smaller nice flood plain. of course only IF the house is high and dry.
But, a flat back yard in or adjacent to a flood plain too often is very poorly drained gumbo-like stuff, worthless for gardening and too squishy too much of the time for reasonable enjoyment.
Yes, my tax bill has nearly doubled in 20 years, as the house value has actually easily tripled.
My $1900 in property taxes in 2002 has a purchasing power of $3034.00 this spring.
Inflation is a significant player in cost of government services.
Regarding the next $800, i am grateful for the many amenities that my tax increases have funded.
Bonds are a great example of very fair funding.
Saturnfan used to rail on and on about bonds, but loved tapping the amenities they provided, including schools.
Bonds spread the cost of improvements and amenities fairly, since it is not cogent to blame improvements on in-migration.
All that said, i believe that financially stressed long-time homeowner should be able to pledge their equity against their property taxes, in a first lien position.
I do not believe that that equity should be wholly reserved for the kids to inherit, with complaint of tax bills as fault for cutting the inheritance.
100!
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
