The Franklin County Auditor's office, Clarence Mingo, is responsible for determining the assessed value of homes in the county for which property taxes are based. What many homeowners do not know; however, is that they can file an appeal to have the assessed value of their home re-examined. This appeal, called a Complaint Against the Valuation of Real Property, can be filed on your primary residence.
Any person owning taxable property in Franklin County may file an appeal. All you need to do is go to the county auditor's website http://www.franklincountyauditor.com/pdf/forms/dte_1.pdf and fill out the form online. Your parcel number can be obtained through the Auditor's property search site or from your recent tax bill. Now is the best time to file the appeal, right after your December tax bills arrive. However, you have until March 31st to file your appeal.
Once the form is completed, mail it to: Franklin County Auditor, Board of Revisions, 373 South High Street, 20th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-6310
It could take several months for you to receive a letter notifying you of a hearing date. To prepare yourself for the hearing, you will need documentation of home sale prices for the past year or two. This will give the hearing officers a better idea of the true market value of your property. Contact me and I can send you a report of sales in the area to take with you to your hearing.
The hearing itself lasts about 15 minutes. You will be asked several questions to determine why you feel the value of your property should be reevaluated. DON'T BE INTIMIDATED! It is very non-threatening and business-like. Once the hearing is completed, you should receive another letter in 2-4 weeks (depending on the number of appeals scheduled) of the Board of Revision's final decision. You may also receive a refund check of the amount overpaid (depending on when your appeal is heard).
It's as simple as that. You have the right to pay only the amount of taxes your property is truly worth. Good luck and contact me at 614-729-9063 if you have additional questions or would like a copy of real estate sales in your area. Or you can go to my website at www.HouseHunterPros.com.
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