I heard it might be possible to reduce my property taxes and wanted to know how to go about doing it

Profile picture for Gramma5
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April 17 2010 - Portland
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Answers (8)

Profile picture for sunnyview
If taxes on a property are too high, you can appeal them. Successful appeals happen when the purchase price or appraised value is lower than the assessed value. You must prove that the taxes are based on a value that is too high to win the appeal. You can use the comp list from your area and select houses like yours that sold to try to make a case for the value of your house. Zillow has a video here to help you find comps on the site. They also have an article here on picking the best comps for your house. Make sure you do not miss the deadline for filing your appeal. Each county/city is different so call them here and ask for the deadline and appeal form.

You can also use the Zindex for your area to look at the % of change in values in your zip code. Assessor's will not consider Zestimate values on your house or other as they are not appraisals, but only an opinion. What they will use is sold comparable houses to yours and the % change in your zip code market. If you are doing a tax appeal, that is the best information you can come to the table with on a tax appeal short of paying for an appraisal. If you build your case, you can win, but come prepared. One number like the change in your Zestimate will not make the case to win your appeal. You might also consider asking a local agent for a CMA (comparative market analysis) on your house. Some will do it for free if you have worked with them before, others may charge a small fee for their professional time. The more solid information you have the more likely you are to win your appeal. Hope the links and info help.
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September 28 2010
Profile picture for angelicablatt
I received a letter from the tax assessor in my area that gave an option to appeal my current taxes and apply for a reduced rate. Probably most counties would offer this option. I would give your local tax assessor a call. It is worth a try.
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September 28 2010
Profile picture for NoelleSellsHomes
Go the correct county Tax assessoer department and they should be able to tell you what you need to do.  I've had clients trying to get heir taxes adjusted, mostly in Multnomah County, and am mor optimisitic after I have read the remarks here,
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September 27 2010
Profile picture for Kyleball
I have been helping many of my clients get their taxes reduced because they are buying the home for so much below wthe assessed value.  I have seen more luck in Clackamas and Washington County but it is possible in Multonmah as well.  The main thing is having some solid market data to be able to prove why your home is assessed higher than it should be.  Sometimes that panel will not even ask you for any info and will just reduce it % but sometimes you have to present your case.  You can also bring a Realtor with to add some credibility. 
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September 27 2010
Profile picture for Eugeneloanguy
Hi Gramma5,
MrLiam gave you some really great information. Also, if you are old enough, you have the ability in Oregon to defer your taxes. People outside of the state don't understand the issues with Measure 5 since the value of the property is not really tied to the assessed value any longer.
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April 18 2010
Profile picture for MrLiam
It's tough to do if you live in Oregon. One of the effects of the passage of Measure 5 was the de-coupling of property taxes and assessed values.

Assuming you live in Multnomah County, click on this link for information on how to appeal.

I have to say I'm with you on this. It just doesn't seem right to have your house values get trashed and still have to pay taxes based on high assessed values.
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April 18 2010
Profile picture for Top10Percent
It can be pretty easy if the taxes are off in a specific manner.  Let's say the taxes say you own a 4 bedroom, but it is really a three, or if the square footage is really off.  These instances will almost always get approved.  The other situation is to have your home appraised, and if it comes in significantly lower than the tax-assessed value it is usually approved.
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April 17 2010
Profile picture for homesbypam
Dear Gramma
The first step is to check with your township tax assessor office. They usually have the paperwork needed there along with the instructions to follow.
Best Regards,
Pamela E
Weichert Realtors
732-577-0440
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April 17 2010
 

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