Friday, October 2, 2009

Property Taxes are Still too High? You can DO Something.


Property values in the USA have tanked in most areas of the country, but many taxing entities have not reduced the property taxes since they all need money, too. Most states require that the taxing entity keep the appraisal on property within ten percent or so of the actual value based on comparable homes sold in the area.

If your taxes have continued to rise, or have not gone down, you may want to watch for the window of opportunity to PROTEST your taxes. We have done this a few times, and it has a long-term effect on the taxes, since it lowers the taxes for years to come.

You may find it well worth your while to protest your real estate taxes this year when the opportunity is available. There is usually information provided with your appraisal or tax bill that tells when you can protest, and where.

We have written about this subject and have a couple of articles that may help. One article covers the Protest. Another covers the appeal process if you lose the first round.

Here is the protest information.
This gives you the basics for what to expect if you Protest your property taxes.

This explains how to APPEAL the protest if you do not get your taxes reduced as much as they should be.

YOU can do this yourself. You do not need an attorney, an appraiser, or an ombudsman.

Let us know if we can help. We are in Texas, and of course the laws vary from State to State.

Linda
cajunC

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