Received an unsatisfactory property appraisal this year?
Received an unsatisfactory property appraisal this year?
Well, have we got some good news for you! If your home has been assessed at a value you perceive to be higher than it should be, you have the right to protest it!
Now, the process can be a bit complex, but that is why we are here — to outline some steps you can take to ensure you are well-prepared and have a greater chance of a successful protest!
Understand Your Property Tax Assessment
Before you can protest your property taxes, you need to understand how your property is being assessed. Typically, you will receive a notice of appraised value each year from your local government. This notice states how much they believe your property to be worth, which directly impacts your property tax rate.
Take the time to thoroughly review the assessment notice to ensure that all the information is correct. This includes square footage, number of beds and baths, and property features. If you find any discrepancies, make sure to record them, as these will add value to your protest.
Gather Comparable Sales Data and Assess the Market
A great argument when protesting your property tax assessment is showing that your home is overvalued compared to properties in your community with similar features to your own. This is known as finding “comps”, or comparable sales. By gathering data on homes like yours that have recently sold, you can make the case that the assessment is too high. Don’t know where to begin your search? This information can typically be found on real estate sites or in public records.
You may also find that the market in your area has been shifting. If property values in your neighborhood have been on the decline or haven’t seen much movement at all, your home’s value may be overstated. You can find this information by checking local real estate reports, market trends, and property sales over the past year.
For instance, the San Antonio Board of Realtors releases monthly market reports that could provide some valuable insight into the state of the housing market. If there’s evidence that property values are generally down, this could strengthen your argument for a lower assessment.
Evaluate Your Home
Look over your home for any features that could impact the value of your property. Are there structural problems? Are the features outdated? Are there any repairs needed? Take photos and gather evidence of these, as they will greatly benefit your argument.
Prepare Your Evidence
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary evidence, data, and information for your argument, you can begin to prepare an effective presentation for the protest. Your evidence can include:
- A copy of the appraisal notice.
- A list of comps with data like sale prices, the day they sold, and property details.
- Photos of your home and any findings that could have an impact on its value.
- Errors you have found regarding your property.
- Evidence of current market trends in your area.
Having your information clearly laid out and backed by evidence will boost your chances of a successful property tax protest.
Know the Process (& Your Deadline!)
Every area will possess its own rules and methods for filing a protest, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with the process in your area. Check with your local appraisal office or their website for details on how and when you need to file your protest.
Consider Getting Help from an Expert
The process of property tax protests can feel overwhelming for anyone — especially considering the fact that you likely have a ton of other things on your plate. Take the load off your shoulders and partner with a property tax professional. At SWBC, our property tax experts can help ensure you are taking every necessary step for a successful case. From gathering the necessary information to representing you in your protest, we are here for you. Maximize your property tax savings here!
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