Is it Even Worth it to Fight a Property Tax Assessment in the First Place?
You probably realize the market is not currently strong. While you can hope that the economy will get stronger soon, thus increasing home values, right now, values on homes are still decreasing pretty quickly. Despite the unfortunate situation, there is some good news. Due to a drop in home values, you might have less property taxes to pay on an annual basis if you receive a lower property assessment.
What should you do if you think you received too high of an assessment? Would it benefit you to fight it at all? There is a possibility it would be.
First, it is useful to understand how home values are assessed. Two of the most popular ways are with comparables and replacement or rebuilding value. Also known as “comps,” comparables are simply other homes in your neighborhood or the surrounding area that are similar to your home and have recently been sold. By noting how much each of these homes sold for, assessors are able to value your home accordingly. Replacement or rebuilding value is more like how a bank appraises your home based on how much they think the cost would be to replace it.
If you believe your home was valued too high, you must first build yourself a case for a lower property assessment. This can be done by meeting with assessor and informing him or her you believe you were assessed too high. Next, you must file an appeal. Most locations have a time limit for such an appeal, as well. 60 days tends to be about average, but it varies, so be sure to check what the actual time limit is where you live so you don’t miss out. During the appeal, you will go through an appeal board and give an eight to ten minute presentation. It is appropriate here to bring pictures with comparables and all the data supporting your case, such as floor plans on these comps that are similar to your own and any other evidence that your home was assessed too high.
Doing your research and filing an appeal is the most direct and uncomplicated way to fight your property assessment, despite there being other options. Dress and act professionally, as well as lay out the facts that support your side clearly and concisely during your presentation. If you’ve done your homework, you have a good shot. It’s definitely worth your time and effort in that case to fight your assessment and consequently reduce your annual property taxes.
Looking for your dream home in Colorado, but can’t decide if you want to buy real estate in Westminster Pennsylvania or purchase Boulder real estate? You may consider letting a real estate agent help you in your property search.
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