Taxpayers in high property-tax states all over the country are fighting back, including packing up and moving to states where the property tax burdens are lower.

They find it particularly galling that tax bills continue to rise as home values decline, a common phenomenon. A recent survey by the National League of Cities reported that 25 percent of municipalities raised property taxes in 2009 to replace declining revenues.

The real estate coach is a resource for real estate professionals to learn about and develop real estate skills.  I found their #1 prediction for 2010 to be very interesting:

1. Economic slim fast or sunshine on the horizon?
Higher unemployment and additional tax increases translate into less spendable dollars for housing. This means people can afford less resulting in more downward pressure on prices. On the flip side, sales  in California and Florida are up as much as 40 to 60 percent. Real estate has usually led the way out of past recessions. Furthermore, massive congressional spending will probably result in inflation. During inflationary times, hard assets such as gold and real estate are usually the best hedges.
 

Prediction: Provided the new health care bill and additional congressional spending doesn't completely sink the economy, expect to see an increase in the number of sales, price stabilization, and even increases in the first time buyer price range. On the other hand, look for a reduced number of Realtors who can afford to stay in the business if they face additional taxes plus possible mandatory payments for health insurance.

Reprinted from the Real Estate Coach