[header] How to lower your property taxes [title] Determine how your area assesses homes. [step] Not every municipality assesses property the same way. Before you start appealing your taxes, figure out how your area assesses property.
[header] How to lower your property taxes [title] Determine how your area assesses homes. [step] Not every municipality assesses property the same way. Before you start appealing your taxes, figure out how your area assesses property.
Some base it strictly on market value, others base it on home and land value. Some places subtract some value for depreciation. Some property assessments will be more affordable, while others will be cheaper. [substeps] For example, if your city has an appraising body, it would benefit you to visit that body and see if it offers comparable home-equity services. Take some time to find out about your city's zoning laws. That will put you in touch with city or county assessors for assistance in evaluating your property. You will probably have to work with a real estate attorney to determine the way your municipality respects and assesses real property. [substeps] Keep in mind that your state's definition of property is the same as your city or town.