Home address: 155 Horse Trail Dr

2021 Taxable Value: $1,563,250

Recent Sales Price: $1,255,000 – Over-taxed by 25%

Appraisal district errors in setting assessed values cause Hays County owners to pay extra taxes. Most market value protests are successful, typically saving the owner hundreds or thousands of dollars. Property owners can appeal both market value and unequal appraisal. Woody Allen said “80% of success is showing up”.  The same is true of property taxes.  If you file an appeal and attend the hearing, your chance of reducing your property taxes is excellent.

Many owners intended to appeal but the May 15th date slipped by with no appeal.  If you want to appeal and it is slipping your mind, consider a consultant. One reason it is difficult for appraisal districts to correctly value homes is they are not homogenous.  Some have been remodeled and some haven’t. One reason appraisal districts are motivated to settle protests is to maintain goodwill with the community. Property owners have a duty and responsibility to appraise property taxes annually.  It is not prudent or reasonable to rely on the appraisal district’s estimate.