The Impact of DeKalb County Reassessments on Property Owners

In DeKalb County, Georgia, the Board of Tax Assessors is legally required under Georgia law to annually appraise all real property at its fair market value (FMV) as of January 1st each year. This process, known as reassessment, is designed to ensure that property values remain current and equitable based on real estate market conditions.

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🔍 What to Expect During a DeKalb County Reassessment

📆 Annual Review

DeKalb’s Property Appraisal Department monitors local real estate activity year-round. It uses recent sales data, property characteristics, building permits, and market trends to reassess properties for the upcoming tax year.

📈 Market-Driven Adjustments

If homes in your neighborhood are selling for more, your FMV may increase.
If the market is flat or declining, your value could stay the same or even decrease.

🏗️ Changes to Individual Properties

Major changes to your property—like additions, renovations, or new construction—can increase your value. Likewise, significant damage or deterioration may lead to a reduction.

📬 Annual Notice of Assessment

Sent out in late May or early June.
Includes the prior year’s value, your new proposed value, and information about your right to appeal.

💰 Higher Value = Potentially Higher Taxes

Even if the millage rate remains the same, an increase in assessed value often leads to a higher tax bill. Your taxes are calculated based on 40% of the fair market value, minus any applicable exemptions.

📝 You Have the Right to Appeal

If you believe your property’s value is too high, you can file an appeal within 45 days from the notice date. The appeal must be filed with the DeKalb County Board of Tax Assessors.

📌 Key Impacts for Property Owners in DeKalb County

🔁 Fluctuating Tax Bills

Because reassessments happen every year, your tax bill may vary depending on market performance and property changes.

🧐 Importance of Reviewing Your Notice

Carefully verify:

Square footage
Bedroom/bathroom counts
Basement or pool
Renovation or construction details

Inaccuracies can lead to an incorrect valuation.

🏘️ Understand Neighborhood Market Trends

Track recent home sales in your community. If comparable homes sold for less than your assessed value, you may have a strong basis for appeal.

🚪 Your Appeal Window Reopens Each Year

Georgia law allows annual appeals of your assessed value. If you missed it last year, a new opportunity comes each spring with your assessment notice.

✅ Summary

Annual reassessments in DeKalb County help maintain fair and up-to-date property values. While rising values may mean higher tax bills, the reassessment process ensures fairness and gives property owners a yearly opportunity to challenge inaccurate valuations. Stay informed, check your Annual Notice carefully, and don’t hesitate to appeal if your value seems off.