How to lower your property taxes

As home values shift, many homeowners are left wondering why their property taxes are going up. See the simple steps below to potentially lower your property taxes.

• Learn the system- Every town is different when it comes to assessments, so visit your local assessor’s office and learn their procedure. Get the forms you need to file and learn when the deadlines are for filing that appeal. You typically have 60 days or less from the time your annual assessment was mailed to lodge your appeal.
• Get a copy of your property card- A property card contains all the information the assessor used in determining the assessed value of your home. Make a copy for your records.
• Neighborhood comparisons- Contact your CENTURY 21 Beggins Agent to find out what comparable homes (similar to yours in size, vicinity, amenities etc.) have recently sold for. If you discover that your property is valued at least 5-10% higher, than the comparables, you may have a case.
• Ask for a reassessment- Use any evidence you’ve found that supports your claim and ask for a reassessment. Examine your property card for inaccuracies, these are common and can be corrected on the spot and enable you to avoid a formal hearing altogether.
• File an appeal – While the rules for appeals vary by location, most appeals are submitted in written form to county boards with a statement explaining why you feel the evaluation is inaccurate. Support this claim with evidence (property cards and photos can be useful if comparing the condition of your home to others), and make your case.