Lower Your Property Tax Now

How Do I Know if an Appeal is Necessary?

Sometimes it’s as simple as seeing your tax bill go up and your property value go down.  It might be a major change in your neighborhood – rezoning, foreclosures or a new highway a block away.  Or it may just be the nationwide downward spiral of home values that we can’t seem to slow quick enough.

In any case, it’s important to be aware of what is happening to know if it’s time for you to appeal your property assessment.

There are many reasons behind a change in property values.  Here are a few to be aware of:

• Home prices in your neighborhood are heading downwards.
• The property description on your assessment or your tax bill is inaccurate.  An example is having your single family home being listed as a town home.
• The condition of your home has declined.  This could be from environmental reasons, aging of the roof, foundation or flatwork cracking or simple deterioration.
• There is a change in the neighborhood environment.  Rezoning, increases in traffic, new commercial buildings or highways, and changes in drainage can all contribute.

Don’t underestimate the importance of keeping vigilant when it comes to the value of your home.  A reassessment or levy increase can cause a spike in your property tax bill of hundreds of dollars – every year.  If you don’t remain diligent, you can leave thousands of dollars on the table for the tax man to take away.

There is a short window every year when you can challenge your property assessment and challenge your tax bill.  Do the research.  Be ready.  Use tools like Property Tax Appeal Guidelines to prepare your appeal. 

It doesn’t take a lawyer – it just takes a little time and research – for you to make sure your next tax bill isn’t a surprise, but fair.

Michael Korbe