I remember a line from one of the Absolutely Fabulous series shows when Edina, in court following DUI charges, bemoans "Why oh why must we pay taxes? ...Why don't you just tax the stupid people?"

Taxes are probably on everyone's list of things they don't like, or don't want to pay. The point of this post, however is NOT to debate this issue, or to convince you of the value of your property taxes.

(photo courtesy of Flilckr and AMICHAELMURRAY)

However, there are some things you should know if you are purchasing a Carlsbad home, or elsewhere in this area (California). Whether you are new to Carlsbad or not, it's important to understand how we are taxed in California, when it occurs, and the overall process. You don't want to end up not paying them and having a lien slapped on your home. Not good!

• Under Proposition 13 here in California, property is only reassessed upon change of ownership or new construction. So property assessments CANNOT be increased by more than 2% annually except in these cases. The tax rate is 1% (but you should check for each town as they vary above this 1% due to special bonds or other fees - Carlsbadright now is 1.01714% to 1.04842% of assessed value plus any special fees, Mello Roos, etc).
• When a sale or transfer occurs, the Assessor's Office will receive a copy of the deed and will decide if a reassessment is needed; if so an appraisal must be done so that a new market value can be determined, the homeowner informed, and an appeal may be made if desired. (exclusions - transfer between spouses, divorce, refinancing, and other situation like seniors and disabled).
• The Assessor's Office will also receive all permits for construction, and if new a reassessment is needed (replacement, repair or maintenance does not require a reassessment)
• If the market value of your home falls below the assessed value, the Office is required to lower the assessment. You can apply for this reduction between March 1 and May 30, or between July 2 and November 30.
• Supplemental Tax - as noted above, the home must be reassessed upon ownership change, and the difference between the NEW value and the OLD assessment is a supplemental tax. This is prorated for the number of months that remain in the fiscal year ending June 30. This Supplemental Tax bill is in addition to the regular tax bill. This may be appealed if done within 60 days of the tax bill being mailed.
• Tax year is July 1 through June 30.

For more information on tax questions on your Carlsbad home, you may contact the Assessor's Office at (858)505-6262 or visit the website.

If you are in a different local check with your town tax office for information on your property taxes.

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