Frequently Asked Questions
How does California Prop 13 affect my property taxes?
Prop 13 generally limits annual assessed value growth and establishes a base-year value at purchase, helping many homeowners keep long-term tax increases predictable.
What's the difference between a HELOC and home equity loan?
A HELOC is revolving with variable-rate access to funds, while a home equity loan provides a fixed lump sum with set repayment terms.
When should I refinance my California mortgage?
Refinancing tends to make sense when savings exceed costs over your expected timeline, or when changing term, payment structure, or equity access improves your plan.
How much equity can I borrow against?
Most programs cap combined loan-to-value based on credit, occupancy, and property type. Many borrowers can access a portion of equity while preserving a safety buffer.
What's included in my escrow account?
Escrow usually covers property taxes and homeowners insurance, with annual analysis to true-up shortages or issue refunds when over-collected.