Talking about finances is never fun, but it's always necessary — especially when building a custom home.

Homeownership is a big financial responsibility, especially in New Jersey. With an average property tax rate of 2.44%, homeowners in the Garden State must plan carefully for their regular tax bills. Some homeowners choose to set aside money every month for their tax bill, while others pay their tax bills through their monthly mortgage payment.

Property taxes represent a significant expense for homeowners in New Jersey, especially in certain communities. If you're new to the state or are thinking about purchasing your first home, it's important to be prepared. Here's what you need to know about property taxes in Central New Jersey.

When you're building a luxury home, it's important to get the best value and service for your money. The success of your project depends on your ability to create a budget that works for you and your custom builder.

Following a disaster like a fire or a flood, most homeowners immediately turn to their insurance company for help. They go through a claims process, find a contractor, and begin the process of rebuilding their home. If you've recently been through a disaster, whether it was a home fire or a recent storm, you've got a long road ahead of you. Rebuilding consists of many steps. Knowing the process can help you anticipate each step and can also help you make smart decisions as you navigate this challenging time.

Do you own a beach house that you rent out to vacationers while you're not using it? If so, you could become the victim of a scam, if you're not careful. Beach house scammers have been known to do everything from steal beach house furniture to rent out homes they don't own to unsuspecting victims. As a property owner, maintaining awareness of potential scams and watching for suspicious activity can protect you, protect your property and may even protect victims that you've never met.