Home address: 116 N Ave D
2021 Tax Assessment: $78,590
Recent Sales Price: $55,000 – Over-taxed by 43%
Most homeowners who do not appeal annually pay excess property taxes. Appraisal districts are flexible on market value appeals given the large number of houses they value and that are protested. Unequal appraisal appeals compare the level of assessment of your house to comparable houses, typically on a per square foot basis. Woody Allen said “80% of success is showing up”. The same is true of property taxes. If you file an appeal and attend the hearing, your chance of reducing your property taxes is excellent.
Some homeowners believe “you can’t fight city hall.” But property owners win 60 to 80% of property tax appeals. Assessors do not visit houses because of appeals. It is impossible for 2,272 Texas appraisal district appraisers to track physical condition and value for over 20 million properties. Appraisal districts usually settle appeals at the informal hearing since it costs less and takes fewer resources. Property owners have a duty and responsibility to appraisal property taxes annually. It is not prudent or reasonable to rely on the appraisal district’s estimate.