Got Your Property Tax Assessment? What to Do Next!
If your mailbox (or inbox) just delivered a surprisingly high property tax assessment… you’re not alone. We just received ours too, and it reminded me that it’s the perfect time to revisit this topic in my Weekly Update.
I’ve personally appealed our property taxes three times—and successfully lowered the assessed value each time. Here’s a quick guide to help you do the same:
How to Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment:
- Check for Errors: Review your property details for mistakes, especially square footage. Don’t rely on Zillow—those estimates can be inflated.
- Use a Sketch from an Appraisal: A drawing from a professional appraisal (if you have one) can be powerful evidence.
- Find Recent Comparable Sales: Look for homes similar in size, age, and quality—not just nearby.
- Highlight Upgrades in Higher-Priced Homes: If those homes have features like pools, new construction, or luxury finishes—point that out!
- Use Assessments of Similar Homes: Compare your assessment to others with the same floor plan, age, and builder.
- Be Reasonable with Your Request: A moderate reduction request has a higher chance of success.
- Document Everything: Back up your appeal with photos, sale data, appraisals, or sketches—well-organized and clearly presented.
Want Help?
You can file an appeal yourself, or work with a professional service that only charges if they successfully reduce your bill. Some charge a flat fee, others take a percentage of the first year’s savings.
Missed the Homestead Exemption Deadline in Fulton County?
If you missed the April 1st deadline to file for a homestead exemption for 2025, here’s some good news for Fulton County residents:
- Once you receive your 2025 Notice of Assessment, you have 45 days from that date to still file for this tax year.
- To qualify, you must have owned and occupied your home as of January 1st, 2025.
- Don’t miss this second chance to reduce your taxes!
If you’re thinking about appealing or just want a second opinion, I’m happy to help guide you through it—or help you understand how it might impact your escrow and mortgage payments.
Let’s make sure you’re not paying more than you should.
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Blog post date: Friday, June 27, 2025
