Is It Time to Appeal Your Property Tax Bill?

In these uncertain times, many homeowners have had to face the fact that the current market value of their homes is less than they once thought.   Yet, they continue to pay property taxes based on that higher value.  Higher taxes may also make a property less appealing and affordable to buyers, since higher taxes will increase their overall costs.  That’s why it’s a smart strategy, especially if you’re considering a sale in the near future, to appeal your property taxes.  Another advantage is when you get your property taxes reduced, they are ‘locked’ for three years.

Here’s how it works:

1. Check the values of similar houses in your neighborhood
2. To appeal, you must do so in writing either within 45 days of a notice of increased assessment or between January 1 and April 1.
3. When your appeal is received, The Fulton County Board of Assessors (BOA) makes its review and either agrees with your value or establishes a new one.
4. If you are not satisfied with the BOA’s decision, you may choose Arbitration or a Board of Equalization (BOE) hearing. The BOE is a panel of three county taxpayers appointed by the Fulton County Grand Jury to resolve disputes over property valuation. There is no cost if the BOE is chosen.
5. Your final option is to appeal the case to the Fulton County Superior Court.

To make your appeal more effective and possibly improve your case:
1. Request a copy of your Property Record Review Document in person from the Assessors’ office.  This free, one page document will describe the essential features of your residential property.  Review it for accuracy.
2. Obtain a market analysis of comparable properties recently sold in your neighborhood.  I would be happy to provide one for you at no charge.
3. Establish property value by providing a recent property appraisal. This is a good option for individuals who have recently purchased or refinanced a home.  

For additional information on filing an appeal, please contact the Tax Assessor’s at (404) 224-0102 or you may visit their website at: www.fultonassessor.org.  Good luck!