Property taxes are typically calculated based on the assessed value of your property. So, if you believe that your home’s assessed value is too high, you may be able to appeal it and potentially lower your property taxes. Here are steps to do so:
- Understand the Process: Each local government has its own process for property tax appeals. This information is usually available on your county or city’s website. Familiarize yourself with the timeline, forms, and procedures.
- Review Your Property Tax Card: This document contains information used to calculate your tax, such as the size of your lot, the number of rooms in your home, and any improvements. Check for errors that could inflate your property’s assessed value.
- Gather Evidence: If you choose to appeal, you’ll need to provide evidence that your home’s assessed value is too high. This might include documentation of selling prices of comparable homes in your area, photos, a professional appraisal, or evidence of issues (like structural problems) that could lower your home’s value.
- Submit Your Appeal: Follow the procedure outlined by your local government to submit your appeal. This usually involves filling out a form and providing your evidence. There may be a fee to file an appeal.
- Prepare for the Hearing: If a hearing is part of the process, prepare to present your case. Keep your argument focused on concrete evidence. It’s not enough to argue that your taxes are too high; you need to show that your home’s assessed value is not in line with its actual worth.
- Consider Getting Professional Help: If the process seems overwhelming or the stakes are high, you may want to hire a property tax lawyer or a property tax consultant to help with your appeal.
Remember, while it’s possible to lower your property taxes, success isn’t guaranteed. The process can also take time and effort, and there may be costs associated with filing an appeal or getting a new appraisal. Be sure to weigh these factors when deciding whether to appeal your property taxes.