If you recently received a new property assessment, you may be asking: “How do I know if my property tax assessment is too high?”

 

As a local Realtor®, I regularly analyze home values and recent comparable sales. Recently, I had to use that experience to challenge the assessed value of my own home. See video below for my personal experience.

 

My Property Was Assessed Too High

Laurens County originally assigned my home a market value of $377,800 and a taxable value of $359,700. Based on the home’s size, condition, features, and recent sales in the area, I believed those values were significantly higher than the property’s actual market value.

 

I completed extensive research, prepared a Comparative Market Analysis, commonly called a CMA, and submitted a written appeal to the Laurens County Assessor’s Office. My appeal included recent comparable sales and an explanation supporting a market value of approximately $324,000.

After reviewing the information, the Assessor’s Office revised both the market value and taxable value to $296,300.

 

The appeal resulted in:

• An $81,500 reduction in assessed market value
• A $63,400 reduction in taxable value

 

Had I not reviewed and challenged the assessment, I could have faced a significant and unnecessary increase in my property taxes.

 

How to Appeal a Property Tax Assessment

If you believe your home has been assessed incorrectly, consider taking the following steps:

 

1. Review Your Assessment Notice

Check the county’s market value, taxable value, assessment ratio, property classification, and the deadline for filing an appeal.

 

2. Verify Your Property Information

Make sure the county has the correct square footage, acreage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, property type, and other important features. Incorrect information could affect the assessed value.

 

3. Research Recent Comparable Sales

Look for recently sold homes that are similar in location, size, age, condition, and features. Active listings and automated online estimates may provide context, but recent closed sales generally offer stronger evidence of market value.

 

4. Request a CMA From a Realtor®

A local Realtor® can access recent sales information and help identify comparable properties that may support your position. Accurate and current market data can make your appeal much stronger.

 

5. Prepare a Written Appeal

Clearly explain why you believe the assessment is incorrect. Include your contact information, property identification, the value you believe is accurate, and the evidence supporting your position.

 

6. Submit Everything Before the Deadline

Appeal deadlines are important. Follow the instructions on your assessment notice and confirm the current requirements directly with your county assessor.

 

7. Keep Copies and Follow Up

Save copies of your assessment notice, appeal letter, comparable sales, CMA, and any correspondence you receive from the county.

 

***Don’t Automatically Assume the County’s Value Is Correct***

A higher assessment does not always mean it is inaccurate, but homeowners should understand how the value was determined and confirm that it reasonably reflects the property.

 

This experience is also a reminder that a knowledgeable Realtor® can provide value long after closing. Access to current sales data can help homeowners better understand their property’s value, whether they are reviewing a tax assessment, considering refinancing, or preparing to sell.

If you need current market information or assistance buying or selling a home in Upstate South Carolina, contact:

 

Kevin W. Wells, Realtor®
North Group Real Estate
864-430-2451

 

This article is provided for general informational purposes and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Procedures and deadlines may vary. Contact your county assessor, tax professional, or attorney for guidance regarding your specific circumstances.

 

 

My Personal Experience

 

 

 

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