How to Win Your DeKalb County Property Tax Appeal

Posted by Daniel Jones on Aug 24, 2018 9:49:00 PM

DeKalb_County_Property_Tax_Appeal

As a homeowner or owner of a business, you’re probably familiar with the process of paying property taxes each year. Recently, new legislature has made it possible only to deduct around $10,000 of your DeKalb County property taxes from your federal tax bill. For those in high-tax counties or states, this might make 2018 feel a bit more painful than years past. While there is no way to avoid paying taxes completely, there is a property tax appeal service that might help you pay a little less in property taxes each year.

Have an Understanding of Assessment, Taxation, and the Appeal Process

It may not be the most exciting thing you do this year, but to properly appeal your property taxes you have to have an understanding of the underlying process. The truth is that the property tax system is complicated, and research can take a large amount of your time. However, what is more important is that you understand that the value of your property is what determines the amount you pay in property taxes.

What matters most when it comes to a property tax appeal service is that your assessment is accurate and fair. If that is not the case, you may be in luck and able to reduce the assessment. In turn, this means that you will be able to qualify for lower taxes on your owned property. In the most straightforward situation, your DeKalb County assessor will agree to the reduction without the need for an assessment. However, even in this case, there is plenty needed to prove your case.

Tax Assessment Information Scrutinization

You need to have an understanding of your tax assessment before you work towards your appeal. In some cases, you may be able to look up the required information online. If that isn’t possible for you, you will need to head into your tax assessor’s office. There are a few things to verify right away after you have the information available.

  • Amenities – Look for things such as in-ground pools, sheds, fencing, and other features. If your property no longer has any of the listed items, you will be able to file a claim for an adjustment which can result in a lower property tax requirement.
  • Square Footage – Check whether the square footage listed on your documents is accurate. In some cases, it may be higher than is actually true for your property. This gives you a reason to seek out a property tax appeal service. You should also look for any extra rooms that might be listed or a finished area that isn’t actually finished. These are all reasons to appeal the assessment.
  • Zoning – Another important aspect to consider is the zoning of your property. If your property includes a utility, conservation, or drainage easement, make sure this is noted in your property information sheet.

Determine the Amount of Taxes Your Neighbors Pay

One of the best things you can do to determine if you are being assessed incorrectly is learning what your DeKalb County neighbors are paying in property taxes. You’ll want to focus on homes or properties that are similar to yours to get a realistic idea. You can also look at a real estate site to find recently sold homes similar to yours in the same area. A real estate agent can also pull comparison properties for you to take a look at.

However, be aware that the homes you are basing this on must be similar to yours. If you have a new home with six bedrooms and a four-car garage, you can’t expect to pay the same property taxes as the person with a two-bedroom from 1980 who lives down the block. In addition, improvements that have been made to your home may make the price higher. Your property tax appeal service company can help you determine the reality.

Think About the Potential of Hiring an Appraiser

If you’re having trouble finding the information you need at this point, you may want to hire a property tax appeal service or a real estate appraiser. This professional will be capable of drawing up an official document about your property that offers an educated opinion about the value of your property. However, if the appeal ends up in court, this expert may or may not be asked to testify. In addition, if the person does not testify, it’s possible the document will not be used in the case. That is why it’s important to choose a trustworthy company for this process.

Understanding When and How You Should Appeal

If you run across a mistake when looking at the assessment for your DeKalb County home, there is still a process for proving that and having it corrected. While this is one of the easiest ways to be granted a positive judgment on an appeal, it still takes time and effort. Every state has its own procedure for appeals, as well as a deadline. Even if the mistake is on their part, not yours, that is the only time you can appeal the assessment. This means you need to get going quickly and determine when to appeal and to whom you should appeal to.

Learn What You Need to Know to Win Your Property Tax Appeal

Fair Assessments LLC offers a resource center which includes a step-by-step guide for appealing property taxes in DeKalb County. You can also sign up to receive information about what to do before filing an appeal, considerations about filing an appeal, and what to watch for after the appeal has been sent into the proper authorities.

For those who have questions, you can contact us by phone at 404-618-0355, through the contact form on our website, or by email at info@Fair-Assessments.com. You can also peruse our blog for information on property taxes and the appeals process for various counties. You can contact us at any time to have your questions answered.

Topics: dekalb county property appraiser

property tax appeals

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