Home address: 132 Cobble Medley Ct

2021 Taxable Value: $312,980

Recent Sales Price: $227,000 – Over-taxed by 38%

While most Texas home owners pay extra property taxes, there are several simple steps you can take to limit your tax bill. Protest market value, get a few comparable sales as evidence and you are very likely to reduce your property taxes. Check the unequal appraisal box on the protest form, or your unequal appraisal appeal will be ignored. Appraisal districts are generally very receptive to settling tax appeals at the informal hearing.

Property owners are sometimes reluctant to protest their property taxes because the believe the appeal process is difficult. It is not difficult and 60 to 80% of owners who appeal are successful. Appraisal districts use the cost approach to value houses. It is generally considered the least reliable method of appraisal. Most tax protests are settled at the informal level so appraisers can return to measuring and valuing new construction. Protesting your property taxes annually is analogous to regularly changing the oil in your car. Preventative maintenance avoids serious problems.