Recent reappraisal programs in Delaware County have left some homeowners wondering if their property taxes are fair in comparison to other area homes. Property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home, so it is a good idea to verify that the amount you have been assessed is up to date and accurate. Additionally, the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 lowered the total deductible amount of income, sales, and property taxes to $10,000, giving many homeowners incentive to try and lower their property taxes going forward.
Check Your Property Tax Card
You should have received a property tax card from your local assessor’s office, but if you did not, you can request one. You can also go to the Delaware County Property Public Access website to find your property’s current real estate tax assessment. Review the information on the card carefully and check for errors. Many towns and municipalities rely on drive-by assessments, which can vary widely in accuracy.
Square Footage
Since the most important element of property taxes is square footage, it makes sense to verify the information listed on your property card. Errors are common and a small mistake in square footage could result in savings for you on your tax bill. Take time to measure your building at the foundation level to confirm that your square footage calculations match those on your property card. Other elements to double check include the number of bathrooms and the style and condition of your house. Popular styles of houses are often assessed at a higher value.
Compare Your Assessment
Property tax bills are available online as public information, so you should be able to compare your assessment with similar homes in your area. You will need this information if you feel your property taxes are too high and you wish to file an appeal.
Appealing Your Assessment
Every year, Delaware County allows property owners to appeal their tax assessment from May 15 to August 1. You will receive a hearing in which you may present evidence to appeal the assessed value of your property. It is also possible to appeal an interim assessment if you receive one. Interim assessments are made when improvements increase the value of the property, such as a new structure, pool, or garage. Property owners who receive an interim assessment have 40 days from the date of notification of the change to request an appeal application.
Delaware County Real Estate Tax Appeals Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Help Clients Appeal Unfair Assessments
If you think the assessed value of your home is too high, talk to an experienced Delaware County real estate tax appeals lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. We will review your case and represent you in an appeal to ensure you are not overpaying in property taxes. Call us today at 610-565-3701 to schedule a free consultation about your property taxes or contact us online. From our offices in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we assist clients with real estate issues in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.