Property taxes hurt.

Every homeowner knows that feeling.

But here is the twist. Those big bills can actually help you build a serious travel fund if you use the right payment strategy.

Let’s walk through how smart travelers turn unavoidable expenses into trips they love.

The Basic Play

You line up a credit card that earns strong rewards. Then you time it so your property tax payment helps unlock a big welcome bonus.

That single move can turn a stressful bill into thousands of points.

Step 1: Choose the Right Card Setup

• High welcome bonus

• Large minimum spend window

• Strong category earnings

• Points with solid flexibility

Step 2: Time Everything Carefully

• Match your tax due date with your card opening

• Leave room for payment processing

• Keep payment deadlines in mind

• Note when points typically post

The Math Example

Let’s say you owe a $10,000 property tax bill.

Traditional Payment

• Pay by check or bank transfer

• Rewards earned: 0

• Travel fund: 0

Using a Rewards Strategy

• The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Welcome bonus: 150,000 points

• Regular points from spend: 10,000

• Estimated processing fee: $300, about 3 percent

Total Value

• Total points: 160,000

• Travel value: roughly $3,200 or more

• Net gain after fee: about $2,900

You would pay your property taxes either way. This approach lets the payment work for you.

Other Big Bills That Can Earn You Points

Insurance Premiums

• Home insurance

• Car insurance

• Life insurance

• Timing of premium payments

Home Improvements

• Contractor bills

• Materials

• Appliances

• Renovation projects

Business Expenses

• Inventory

• Software

• Marketing

• Equipment

Education Costs

• Tuition

• Books

• Housing fees

Tips to Make the Strategy Pay Off

Compare Processing Fees

• Some payment processors cost less

• Look for limited time discounts

• Make sure points earned exceed fees

Stack Extra Benefits

• Shopping portals

• Card offers

• Seasonal promotions

Plan Ahead

• Time your card application

• Match payment schedules

• Know when points post

• Watch travel booking windows

Your next property tax bill is coming no matter what. The question is whether it becomes a tool that helps you travel more.

A Note on Card Choices

Some travelers look at premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card because of strong earning rates once the annual $300 travel credit is used. It offers 10X points on hotels and rental cars booked through Chase Travel℠, 5X points on flights booked the same way, 3X on travel and dining, and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Not every card is right for every household. Focus on the option that fits your spending, goals, and timeline.

Talk soon,

Your Maestro Concierge

Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are only the author’s and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity.