When appealing your property tax assessment in Gwinnett County, Georgia, one of the most effective tools you can use is comparable sales data. By showing that similar properties sold for less than your assessed value, you build a strong case for a reduction in your propertyโs Fair Market Value (FMV).
This guide explains how to identify, evaluate, and present sales comps effectively for your appeal.
Not all property sales are created equalโstrong comps share key characteristics with your home.
๐ Location: Most critical. Ideal comps are within the same subdivision or street, and at least within the same neighborhood in Gwinnett County.
๐ Property Type: Compare similar structuresโsingle-family homes to single-family, townhomes to townhomes, etc.
๐ Size and Features: Look for properties within ยฑ10โ15% of your square footage, similar bed/bath count, lot size, and major features (garage, basement, pool).
๐ง Condition: Match the condition of your home. Take note of upgrades or deferred maintenance that impact value.
๐ Sale Date: Ideally, sales should occur within the 6โ12 months prior to January 1st of the tax year under appeal.
๐ค Arms-Length Transactions: These are sales between unrelated, independent parties. Avoid using foreclosures, family sales, or distressed sales, as they are often not valid for appeals.
Use the Property GIS Search to locate recent sales and valuation info.
This site is an official and reliable source for appeal support.
๐ https://gwinnettassessor.manatron.com/IWantTo/PropertyGISSearch.aspx
Use tools like Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and Trulia.
Set filters for property type, location, size, and date sold.
โ ๏ธ Always cross-check sales data with county records when possible.
Agents have access to the MLS, which is the most comprehensive real estate database.
A cooperative agent may provide a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) for your appeal.
These professionals specialize in gathering and adjusting comps.
Especially helpful for higher-value properties or commercial properties.
Include:
Address
Sale date and price
Square footage
Lot size
Beds/baths
Special features (garage, pool, etc.)
Clearly state why each property is comparable to yours.
Note value-affecting differences (e.g., your home lacks a finished basement or has an older roof).
Include sales history screenshots or PDF printouts from county records or real estate platforms.
Your comps may show a range of prices.
Suggest a realistic FMV for your home that falls within (or just below) that range.
All assessments are based on value as of January 1st of the tax year.
Sales closest to that date carry the most weight.
Neighborhood Differences Matter: Property values can vary drastically even within subdivisionsโbe precise with your comp selection.
Appeal Deadline: You typically have 45 days from the date on your Annual Notice of Assessment to file your appeal.
Know the Process:
Phase 1: Review by the Board of Tax Assessors
Phase 2: Possible hearing with the Board of Equalization
Evidence (including comps) must be submitted at least 7 days before a BOE hearing
Website: https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/taxassessor
Property GIS & Sales Search:
https://gwinnettassessor.manatron.com/IWantTo/PropertyGISSearch.aspx
Appeals Process Overview:
https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/departments/financialservices/taxassessorsoffice/appeals
Tax bills, payment information, and general property tax FAQs:
https://www.gwinnetttaxcommissioner.com
Hearing procedures and contact information:
https://www.gwinnettcourts.com/board-of-equalization
Submit your comparable sales and supporting documents at least 7 days before your hearing:
๐ง BOEEvidence@gwinnettcounty.com
Overview of statewide appeal rights and valuation standards:
https://dor.georgia.gov/property-tax