It's good to look beyond the pretty pictures on the listings! The state-level tax differences can absolutely and massively affect your long-term housing costs. Property taxes, homestead exemptions, and local levies vary wildly across the U.S. Because of this, you really need to use financially reliable tools like Redfin, Realtor.com, county assessor sites, or SmartAsset’s property tax calculator. They can provide you with a clearer and more accurate financial picture before you decide to narrow down your locations!