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Property Taxes on The Rise
Property taxes seem to be a thorn in homebuyers' sides lately, with residents in Southwest Florida experiencing either the same (or higher) rates as the previous year. With property values dropping (and in most cases, immensely), consumers are frustrated that they are being asked to pay the same or extra on a property that has lost significant value.
The areas in question are Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Broward County, but residents in Naples, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers and Cape Coral have also experienced plummeting home values. Taxpayers who feel that they have been assessed unfairly, however, do have recourse. An appeal can be filed by a county's due date to have the claim investigated. In this case, an appraiser must show proof of a mistake or poor judgement to have the tax amount altered. If the homeowner is not able to resolve the claim with the county, they can further appeal through with a value adjustment board, or circuit court, depending on the outcome.
With rates of tax complaints rising, county officials are noting the levels of angry homeowners rising. They, along with some appraisers, can certainly understand the frustration. To quote John Thomas, director of residential appraisals for Palm Beach County, "These people are screaming foul... They are angry, and have a right to be angry."
As always, please feel free to call me at 239-357-9558 with any of your Real Estate needs or questions. Rgds, Jay
Information for this article provided courtesy of Sun Sentinel, Fort Lauderdale, FL and Florida Realtors.
