Property Tax FAQ

Tom Pedreira

  • What property is subject to property taxes?

  • How do I qualify for a homestead exemption ?

  • My assessment is more than what my property is worth . Why?

  • My assessment increased a lot this past year. Why?

  • The assessed value of my home didn't change, but my taxes went up . Why?

  • I disagree with the assessment on my property . What can I do?

    Q: What property is subject to property taxes?

    A: This depends entirely on state law. Commonly, real property is taxed. Personal property may or may not be taxed.

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    Q: How do I qualify for a homestead exemption?

    A: Homestead exemptions are creatures of state law. Contact the county Appraiser or Assessor in your county to see what the requirements are, and how to apply.

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    Q: My assessment is more than what my property is worth. Why?

    A: If you bought your home more than a couple years ago, and haven't kept up on the local market, you might not realize how much your property has appreciated. Changes in the local real estate market can have a tremendous impact on the value of your property.

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    Q: My assessment increased a lot this past year. Why?

    A: It's possible that prior year assessments weren't able to properly assess your property because of few sales in the area. If so, it's really been a couple years since your assessment has been conducted properly, and the current assessment reflects the effects of several years of growth.

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    Q: The assessed value of my home didn't change, but my taxes went up. Why?

    A: Check the specific taxes assessed against your property. It's possible that a taxing authority increased the level of their tax against your property.

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    Q: I disagree with the assessment on my property. What can I do?

    A: Your tax assessment likely contains specific information relating to what you need to do. Read it carefully.

    Normally you must request a hearing before the body that does assessments. At the hearing you must provide evidence relating to why the assessment is improper. The body will take your evidence under consideration and eventually make a ruling on the assessment. Under state law, you may have the right to an appeal before the governing agency, or to your state's courts.

    Your state may have also have mediation provisions for assessment appeals.

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