How to Protest Your Property Taxes - What You Need to Know

How to Protest Your Property Taxes – What You Need to Know

If you recently received your property tax assessment and feel that your home’s valuation is too high, you have the right to protest! Many homeowners successfully lower their tax burden each year by challenging their assessments, and as your real estate agent, I can help by providing key home comparisons and market insights to support your case.

Why Protest Your Property Taxes?

Your property tax bill is based on the assessed value of your home. If the assessment is too high or doesn’t accurately reflect the true market conditions, you could be paying more in taxes than necessary. Filing a protest ensures your home is valued fairly and that you’re only paying your fair share.

How I Can Help with Your Protest

? Comparable Home Sales Analysis – I’ll research recent home sales in your neighborhood to ensure your home’s valuation aligns with current market trends. ? Market Trends Report – I’ll provide data showing local real estate trends that may affect your home’s assessed value. ? Property Condition Review – If your home has maintenance issues, I can help document factors that might lower its valuation. ? Appraisal Discrepancy Check – I’ll ensure your home’s details (square footage, lot size, upgrades) are correctly recorded.

Steps to Protest Your Property Taxes

1. Review Your Appraisal Notice

• Check your assessed value and compare it to recent home sales.

• Look for errors in your property’s description.

2. File Your Protest Before the Deadline

• Montgomery County Deadline: May 15, 2025

• Harris County Deadline: May 15, 2025 (or 30 days after receiving your appraisal notice if it was sent after April 15)

• How to File:

  • Online via your local appraisal district’s website

  • By mail or in person at the local appraisal office

  • Through a property tax consultant

3. Use Market Comparisons to Build Your Case

As your real estate agent, I can provide home comparisons and pricing data to support your protest and ensure your assessment is fair and accurate.

4. Attend Your Informal & Formal Hearings

• Informal Review: Discuss evidence with a representative to attempt a resolution.

• Appraisal Review Board (ARB) Hearing: If necessary, present your case to a panel for an official decision.

5. Accept or Appeal the Decision

• If your protest is approved, your property taxes will decrease based on the new valuation.

• If denied, you can appeal further, and I can provide additional data if needed.

Let’s Get Started!

If you believe your home’s assessed value is too high, I’m here to help! Let’s compare your home’s assessment with actual market data and make sure you’re not paying more than necessary.

? Need a home comparison report? Let’s work together to ensure your tax bill reflects your home’s true market value. Contact me today!

Kares Waters-Polk 

504.275.8115