Determining if Fulton County has over-assessed your property requires a meticulous review of your Annual Notice of Assessment and a comparison with current market data. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you identify potential over-assessment:
The Gold Standard: Recent sales (within the last 6–12 months) of similar properties in your neighborhood serve as the most compelling evidence.
Significant Discrepancy: If comparable properties consistently sold for less than the Fair Market Value listed on your assessment notice, this indicates potential over-assessment.
Consider Adjustments: Account for differences such as renovations or added amenities when comparing properties.
Square Footage: Verify the listed square footage against your deed or previous appraisals.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Ensure the count matches your property's actual features.
Lot Size: Compare the listed lot size to your property's survey.
Building Type and Style: Confirm that your property is correctly classified (e.g., ranch vs. two-story).
Year Built: Check for accuracy in the construction year.
Features and Amenities: Ensure all features like garages, basements, or pools are accurately reflected.
Deferred Maintenance: Identify issues like leaky roofs or outdated systems that may not be reflected in the assessment.
Physical Depreciation: Assess whether aging or wear has been appropriately considered.
Document with Evidence: Photograph significant issues and obtain repair estimates if possible.
Compare to Neighbors: Review assessments of similar neighboring properties to identify discrepancies.
Inconsistent Increases: Note if your assessment increased dramatically compared to neighbors without significant property improvements.
Negative Influences: Factors like proximity to busy roads, noise pollution, or environmental concerns can impact property value.
Economic Downturn: Assess if the local real estate market has declined since the assessment date (January 1st).
Your assessment notice may include codes explaining changes. Understanding these codes can clarify the reasons behind valuation adjustments.
Strong Evidence: A licensed appraiser can provide an independent valuation, offering robust support for your appeal.
Cost Consideration: Weigh the appraisal cost against potential tax savings.
Does the county's estimated Fair Market Value align with current market trends?
Are there factual errors in the property details listed on the assessment notice?
Has the property's condition been accurately reflected in the valuation?
Are similar neighboring properties assessed at significantly lower values?
Have there been neighborhood changes that could negatively impact property values?
If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, consider gathering evidence and filing a property tax appeal within the 45-day deadline.
By thoroughly reviewing your assessment and utilizing the resources provided, you can ensure that your property's valuation is fair and accurate.
📝 File an Appeal Portal
📘 Appealing Your Assessment – Fulton County
💳 Pay Property Taxes – Fulton County Tax Commissioner
⚖️ Board of Equalization – Fulton Superior Court
☎️ Phone: 404-612-6440
✉️ Email: boa@fultoncountyga.gov
🏢 Address: 235 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 1200, Atlanta, GA 30303