Frequently Asked Questions
Property value, or market value, is determined by many factors besides home
improvements. Improving neighborhoods, how many houses are for sale, and inflation also affect
the value of your property. Even though your house isn't for sale, it can be worth more because
of these conditions. It is the Assessor's job to determine what your property would be worth if
it was now for sale.
The houses are valued differently because their actual market values vary.
The market values are different because the real estate market conditions are different.
Location plays an important part in establishing market value. General location, distance
from schools and commercial facilities, quality of surrounding properties, and neighborhood
amenities are examples of factors that could and would cause a purchaser to pay more for a
home in one neighborhood than in another.
That may be true, but don't necessarily blame it on the property assessment
or the Assessor. Their job is to estimate the value of every property in the township as close
to one-third of market value as possible. This will assure that each taxpayer will bear a
"fair share" of the tax burden. The amount of taxes is determined by the voters,
the municipalities, school boards, and other taxing bodies in the area.
No. Most normal maintenance of the home will not raise the assessment.
Additions to the home, such as; in ground swimming pools, decks, porches, or fireplaces, etc.,
may add considerable value to the home and may increase the assessment.
The best place to start is by contacting the Assessor's Office in person or by
phone. We will listen to why you feel there is a problem with the assessment and explain our
position. Most problems are cleared up after talking to the Assessor, but if you are still not
satisfied a complaint may be filed with the County Board of Review. (See
appeal information section.)
Generally yes, it is too late to appeal for that assessment year unless you
have already filed with the Board of Review. It might still be beneficial to talk with the Assessor,
if you have not done so already, for the current assessment year.
Not necessarily. Frequently amenities are listed that the Assessor had no
record of (i.e., finished basement, extra bath, fireplace, or remodeled kitchen/bath). The
assessment would be increased to reflect the value added by those "extras." Generally,
properties are studied in neighborhoods, not individually. If other sales besides yours in the
neighborhood were typically higher, then an assessment increase would be warranted. If the
Assessor was to increase individual assessments because of sales, inequity would be created
in the neighborhood.
If you have any other questions, please contact our office.