We now have a scientific answer to the question of the century: Which is better, Trader Joe's or Whole Foods? OK, the actual answer is entirely subjective, but at least we can know which is better for home values. RealtyTrac did an analysis, and it turns out homeowners who live near Trader Joe's see better appreciation but they also pay higher property taxes. Let's look at the numbers:
Homeowners near Trader Joe's
Avg. appreciation since purchasing: 40%
Avg. home value: $592,339
Avg. property tax: $8,536/year (59% higher than homes near Whole Foods)
Homeowners near Whole Foods
Avg. appreciation: 34%
Avg. home value: $561,840
Avg. property tax: $5,382/year
Nationwide (by averaging ZIP codes)
Avg. appreciation: 34%
Avg. home value: $262,068
Avg. property tax: $3,239/year
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