Property Taxes: Expectations vs. Reality

 

Sometimes, your property taxes aren't always a straightforward topic. A lot of factors determine your payments such as your location, employment status, and old or current construction and renovation projects. Homeowners tend to have many expectations regarding their property taxes, but we're here to debunk some common myths and misconceptions to help you remember the realities surrounding your home.

 

Expectation: All That's Needed is the Down Payment to Own a Home

Reality: There are so many other factors that play into buying a home for the first time. Many new homeowners tend to forget to factor property taxes into their budget completely. That's not the only extra fee; there are appraisal fees, legal fees, and title insurance.

 

Expectation: Your Property Taxes Won't Change Yearly

Reality: Your tax bill can change each year due to changes in your school district or local government budgets, revenue, total assessed value, and tax rates. Tax rates generally increase every year, so even if your assessment remains unchanged, your taxes increase. From there, you need to multiply your property's assessment (your review minus any exemptions) by the tax rates issued by your school district, municipalities, counties, and special districts to see what you owe in full for property taxes this year.

 

Expectation: You Can't Lower Those Numbers

Reality: You can get your property taxes lowered; just file a property tax grievance with our help! Here at P.T.R.C., Inc., our main objective is to minimize our client's property tax assessment with personalized service.

Expectation: Applying On Your Own is Easy

Reality: While you can apply by yourself, most homeowners are unprepared and unaware of the information and evidence needed to represent themselves for a property tax hearing successfully. We'd be happy to help!

Expectation: You'll Still Get Charged Even if Your Case is Turned Down

Reality: We don't charge for unsuccessful cases! Your property taxes will remain unchanged, there are no penalties, and you can file again next year if you choose, so the process comes at no risk to you. It's worth the effort to try!

Property Tax Reduction on Long Island

Here at P.T.R.C., Inc., we are determined to help our clients pay the lowest amount of property tax as required by law. Contact us today to see how we can help you: info@ptrc.com