You may be paying too much!

By
Real Estate Agent with Century 21 NorthBay Alliance

Has your home declined in value? Unfortunately, for most of us we have no choice but to answer, yes! For those of us in California, there is some good news. Many of us are paying property taxes based upon values that were determined during the ‘boom market' and these values may have dramatically changed.

California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 1603 provides for an appeal process that allows for a property owner to request a reduction in valuation. Your Counties deadline for filing your appeal is either September 15 or November 15. Link to filing deadlines for all California counties: http://www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/pdf/filingperiods.pdf

Your County Assessor's office has an application for your appeal as well as timelines and a written process. However, don't be surprised if they are less than forthcoming with the information necessary.

The State Board of Equalization also has all the necessary information and the form necessary to file your appeal. They also have a helpful on-line pamphlet for your information. Link to filing info and the necessary form: http://www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/asmappeal.htm

Depending on your market and the price you paid for your home you could save some real money.

            Whatever you do; DO NOT FALL for the SCAMMERS that offer to do this for a fee! They are only going to use the same forms I have provided a link to-see above.

            Good Luck!

Comments (1)

Pacita Dimacali
Alain Pinel - Oakland, CA
Alameda/Contra Costa Counties CA

A few months ago, I posted/blogged about property tax reassessments. Since then, I've received a lot of requests from people asking for help with their property tax reassessments. Although it takes time to do one of these, I'd like to think that I was performing a service, and in turn, help improve the public's impression of realtors.

At the same time, I add folks to my database whom I contact from time to time.

 

Sep 26, 2009 06:52 PM