The conflict starts. One of the jobs of the Assessor's Office, in fact it's primary job, is to reassess the values of all Summit County properties every two years. In spite of a languid economy (as some see it), the appraisals sent out this year found a general increase in value, Of course, most property owners either see a decline, a flattening of value, or at least wish that was the truth. Increased valuations, of course, mean increased property taxes. So, what to do? Well, there is, of course, a period wherein you can protest the valuation. You wil have to provide evidence to support your opinion, but history has shown and many are successful in getting their valuations lowered and, hence, lowering their tax burden. In fact, 4200 appealed their valuations in 2003, up from 3900 in 2001. The rules for protesting are relatively simple, but your local Realtor will almost always be willing to help. We get requests every assessment year. And we've helped many in the process. |