While not everybody can be great friends with their neighbors, it can pay to be a good neighbor, nonetheless. The benefits of being a good neighbor aren’t just about being on good terms with your immediate neighbors but also about reducing your burden of a high property tax by filing a Clayton property tax appeal. Here’s why it matters.
Comparison of Property Values
If you live in a suburban area where the homes start on equal footing, as is the case in new construction with several housing models to choose from, you can reasonably expect that the property values will be similar. At the very least, the differences between the assessed value of your home and the assessed values of your neighbors’ homes will not be significant.
You can make comparisons between the assessed values of your home and your neighbors’ homes, as reflected on the annual notices of assessments. You and your neighbors, with whom you are on good terms, can compare notes on the matter. You will be less likely able to do so if you have been less than of a good neighbor.
You may check your neighbors’ property cards even without their knowledge and consent. You can request said cards from the local assessor’s office in line with your property assessment appeal.
But with your neighbor’s knowledge and consent, you may be able to build a stronger case for reduced property assessment values. You may, for example, cite the lower amount on your neighbors’ annual notice of assessment despite the fact that both parcels of property have similar characteristics. Your problem about high property tax may be resolved via a winning Clayton property tax appeal.
Gather Information about Past Assessments
If you are new to the neighborhood, then you will also find that being neighborly has its benefits, property tax-wise. You can, for example, talk to the neighbors about the possible property tax-related issues the previous owners encountered. You may think of it as being friendly without being too nosy.
You must, of course, have talked to the previous property owner, if possible, so that you can anticipate any possible issues on this matter. You should also have checked the property tax card, which is readily accessible at the local tax assessor’s office, even before purchasing the property. You will be surprised to learn that erroneous entries have been made on the property tax card that contributed to its high taxes, a fact that the previous owner may have overlooked.
A few possible erroneous entries on the property tax card include purchase price; number of bedrooms and bathrooms; classification of the property into residential or commercial property; exemptions granted; age of the main structure; and size and location.
Being friendly with your neighbors is a reward unto itself obviously. You and your neighbors can benefit from your friendship aside for personal reasons when you have a common goal – to reduce high property tax on your respective property. You will find that there is, indeed, strength in numbers against local taxing authorities although emphasis must be made that each property owner should make his individual case in a Clayton property tax appeal. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Fair Assessments, LLC.
