Did Your Property Tax Assessment Just Show Up?
Around this time every year, my neighborhood WhatsApp groups start buzzing with the same question: “Did anyone else get their property tax assessment?”
And usually, it’s followed by: “There’s no way my house is worth that much!”
The good news is that your property tax assessment is not necessarily final. If you believe your home has been overvalued, you generally have the right to appeal.
I’ve actually appealed our property taxes several times over the years and have been successful in getting the assessed value reduced. While every situation is different, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way.
First, Check for Errors
Before looking at comparable sales, make sure the county’s information about your home is accurate. Things to verify include:
- Square footage
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Finished versus unfinished areas
- Features that may not actually exist
One of the most common issues I see is incorrect square footage. Sometimes online listings include basement or terrace-level space in the total square footage, which can make comparisons misleading.
Compare Apples to Apples
If the assessment still seems high, start looking at recent sales of homes that are truly comparable to yours. Try to find homes with similar:
- Size
- Age
- Floor plan
- Quality of construction
- Location within the neighborhood
And don’t be afraid to point out differences. A home that sold for more may have a finished basement, newer renovations, a pool, or premium upgrades that your home doesn’t have.
If You Recently Purchased a Home…
Pay especially close attention.
Many counties reassess properties after a sale, and the previous owner’s exemptions or assessment caps may no longer apply. That doesn’t automatically mean the county is wrong. But it does mean it’s worth taking a careful look at the assessment to make sure the information is accurate and the value is reasonable.
And while we’re talking about property taxes, don’t forget to file for your Homestead Exemption if this is your primary residence. It can make a meaningful difference in your annual tax bill.
Build Your Case with Facts
The strongest appeals are based on evidence. Helpful documentation can include:
- A recent appraisal
- Comparable sales
- Photos showing differences between your home and higher-priced properties
- Property sketches or surveys that verify square footage
And one piece of advice from experience: be reasonable. A well-supported request for a modest reduction is usually more effective than asking for a dramatic decrease.
Bottom Line
Property assessments are estimates, and sometimes they get it wrong. Spending a little time reviewing your notice could potentially save you money year after year.
And if you’re not sure where to start, feel free to reach out. I’ve been through the process several times myself and am always happy to point you in the right direction. Even if it’s just a quick question. No pressure. Just clarity.
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Blog post date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
