Although several localities have specific mechanisms, almost all have a process to appeal or claim property taxes. In most cases, you can do it yourself, or you can hire someone else (or a company) to do it for you. Why would anyone regret their property taxes? One reason could be because most of your neighbors do, and you will suffer financially if you don’t. Another is, if you think your home is being appraised for more than it should be, and therefore you are paying more taxes than you need or should. Regardless of their reasons for doing so, every homeowner needs to realize that they have certain options and rights, and this article will attempt to address 3 of the basic steps to appeal and correct something that could negatively affect you.

1. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): Before you can claim that you are being overcharged, you must create and present based on your belief. In almost every locality, one should accumulate realistic, relevant, and comparable homes, and compare what they are charged in taxes with what you are. For example, if you can locate 5 or 6 houses, which are similar in size, location, property, condition, etc., and their assessed values ​​vary significantly with those of your house, you have created the best initial basis for appeal. If you are able to do it yourself, you will get the most benefit, but if you can’t, or don’t have the time or the will, contact a reputable company to take care of this. In many cases, these companies will charge you up to 50% of your savings, but remember, that is still much better than what you would pay otherwise, etc. Also, you will only be charged the fee if you receive a reduced assessment and savings.

two. Show what others pay in taxes (or are assessed): Once you’ve identified the other relevant properties, show how much less they may be paying than you. This is what you file as your claim, etc.

3. Fill out the necessary forms / procedures: Depending on your location, this process can be quite simple or more complex / complicated. In any case, you must obtain and properly complete all the necessary forms and documents. This is another reason why many people choose to use one of the companies that provide this service.

While it is your responsibility to pay your real estate taxes, it is not, to pay more than you should be fair! If you think you are being taxed unfairly, relative to your neighbors, follow the complaint or appeal process.