Tax Assessments for 2016 have now hit your mailbox, and I am sure you are probably considering disputing your assessment in order to lower your taxes. Kathy and Mary are here to help you! The tax assessments are generally calculated by multiplying your home’s assessed value by the tax rate. You will have 45 days from the date on the Notice to file an appeal should you disagree with the value. The county will tell you that the simplest way to file is on line. They do, however tell you there is no guarantee that the website will be functional at all times during the 45 day time period and if you do not get your appeal through, there is no extension. It must be hand delivered or post marked.
Is it Worth It To Appeal
The marketplace has been significantly increasing in value and it’s likely the assessed value has gone up on your home. If you purchased a home last year, they will use that sales data to assess your taxes. However, if your assessed value has increased by more than 15%, the appeal is probably worth it.
Examine your Tax Records
It is important to check out all the specifics about your property on your tax records. Do they have the correct information about square footage, bedrooms, size of the lot and if any of the facts are wrong, it may be beneficial for you to appeal. If the facts are incorrect in the other direction, however, it is unlikely you will be able to get an appeal through the process.
Comparable Properties
Call Kathy and Mary and we will provide you with several properties that have sold within the last six months that are similar to your home. We will give you all the facts that you need to arm yourself for the appeal.
I would recommend not using a website like Zillow because their valuations are usually very different than the actual value of your home. What you want are really good past sales from your neighborhood.
Filing On-Line
Go to your property page at the DeKalb County.
Look up your property and go to Additional Property. Click on that button and then click I want to file an appeal. Most people use the Board of Equalization on the next page after you have clicked on “I want to File an Appeal”.
This is the method for filing on-line, however, I have found that if you fill out the appeal form and actually take it to the tax office on the last day of the appeal, you are more likely to get your appeal approved. The tax office gets so many appeals, that it is difficult for them to meet their deadline. I recommend filling the form out and, of course, taking it to the tax office. Be certain to get it stamped. You can download the Appeal Form here.
Hire a Professional
Hire a Professional There are many professional companies that will work with you to appeal your taxes. Of course, you will pay for this service. There are many respected companies in Atlanta, one of which is Andy Goldstein at 404-822-3643 and you can email him at andy@yourtaxrep.com
Talk to the Assessor's Office
Many of the assessors are willing to talk to you by phone to discuss the value of your home. You should be ready to discuss the past sales that compare to your property and any disputes you have about your tax record that are in your favor. If you are not satisfied, you can request a formal review. Most formal reviews many take anywhere from one to three months and you will receive the decision in writing.
In a Nutshell
- Gather Your Facts
- Call Kathy and Mary for Comparable Properties
- Fill Out Your Appeals Form and Call us if You Need Help
- Call and Talk to the Assessor's Office
- File an Appeal
We are here to help you with this process, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for information about your home and its value. We are experts in the in-town market and can provide you with the information you need for filing your appeal.
Note: Free house photo from free digitalart from freedigitalphotos.net
Note: Tax photo by Stuart Miles from freedigitalphotos.net
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