With assessment notices out, we are concentrating on answering any questions or concerns that come in either by phone, email, or in person.
Overall, this year, we have seen the market slow down with fewer sales and, in some cases, values starting to level out. However, manufactured home values are still increasing, as they have become an affordable housing option due to the high cost of stick-built homes.
Due to the market, residential property values in certain areas decreased slightly. Residential bare ground also increased this year, especially in the county's rural areas. If needed, we try to raise values incrementally rather than all at once while also striving to comply with state guidelines.
We are working to bring commercial property values into compliance. In doing so, we saw some types of commercial property values increase substantially, including, but not limited to, hotels and fast-food restaurants. Commercial values have been typically low across the state. One of our main struggles while studying commercial properties is the need for more information. We consider the cost, income, and market approach to valuation but often find data hard to get.
We continue to do permits and our other daily work in between helping the public. Throughout the year, but especially during June, we openly invite and help homeowners understand the process of mass appraisal and how we establish market value. Your input and understanding are crucial in this process. If we do find that our data is incorrect on a home, such as an unfinished basement that we might have down as finished, we make the necessary corrections. We encourage everyone to look over their assessment notices and visit with an appraiser to ensure our data is correct.
If, after speaking with an appraiser, you still don't agree with your property's assessed value, you have the right to appeal to the Board of Equalization. This is your opportunity to have your voice heard and ensure your property is valued accurately. The appeal form must be submitted to the County Commissioner’s Office by 5:00 p.m. Monday, June 24.
