Time is of the Essence.

We see that phrase a lot in real estate contracts.  It’s also very apropos when it comes to requesting a tax adjustment on your New Albany Home, from the Franklin County Auditor.  The deadline for filing is just around the corner; March 31, 2009.

Can I get my Real Estate taxes lowered? Yes, In three easy steps.

1.)   Do you have a case?

Well, if you believe that your home’s Market value on the tax rolls is substantially greater that the amount you could sell it for in today’s market, you have a good case to plead with the tax man.  Check out the auditors Property Search  page.  Enter you street number and address.  You will then be taken to the “Summary” page. 

 2) Prove Your Case.

“Wow, that crazy auditor has my home’s market value just slightly north of the Bellagio Hotel. If he’ll buy it for that, he can have it!”  So now you’re clear that his valuation is out of step with today’s market, you just gotta prove it. Okay, back on the Auditor’s Property Search summary page look to the left and click on map (GIS). Check out the homes around you and see if they are valued more reasonably and begin to build a file of  “Comparable properties”.  (Hint, look for ones that have sold recently.)

 

Next, got to our web site, and click on the “What’s My Home Worth Right Now” tab to get a real-time market analysis.

 

The other option is to hire a professional appraiser to do a market valuation appraisal on your property.  We have a number of appraisers whom we can recommend.

3. Go get ‘em tiger!

Okay, you’re almost ready.  Download the “Complaint Against Valuation of Real Property” form fill it out and follow the instructions for filing. 

Help is just a phone call (or email) away if you need it.

We’ve assisted many clients in this process and almost all have been successful in getting their taxes adjusted to reflect true market value.  If you have any questions regarding the process or comps, just give us a shout at 614-939-8944.