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If you’ve ever opened your property tax bill and felt your heart skip a beat (or straight-up drop to your stomach), you’re not alone. Property values in Austin are soaring, and with that, property taxes are creeping higher every year. The good news? You don’t have to just accept it. You can protest your property taxes—and you should!
Every year, the county’s appraisal district (TCAD for those of us in Travis County) assigns a market value to your home. This value determines how much you’ll be paying in property taxes. If you believe the valuation is too high—whether it’s based on incorrect data, inflated market comparisons, or just a little too much optimism from the appraisers—you have the right to challenge it.
A successful protest isn’t just about showing up and saying, “This is too high!” You’ll need solid evidence to back up your claim. Consider:
Comparable Home Sales (AKA “Comps”): Look at recent sales of similar properties in your area. If homes like yours sold for less than your appraisal value, that’s great evidence.
Property Condition Photos: If your home has any issues—foundation cracks, an aging roof, or outdated fixtures—document them with photos.
Incorrect Data: Check your appraisal for errors. If they claim you have four bedrooms when you actually have three, that’s grounds for adjustment.
Professional Appraisal: If you have a recent independent appraisal that’s lower than the county’s assessment, it can carry a lot of weight.
Photo by Jeremy Doddridge on Unsplash
In Texas, the deadline to file a property tax protest is typically May 15th or 30 days after your notice is sent—whichever is later. You can file online through the TCAD website, by mail, or in person.
Once your protest is filed, you’ll have the opportunity to present your case in an informal hearing with an appraiser. If you reach an agreement here—great! If not, you can escalate to a formal hearing with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). This is where your well-prepared evidence can make all the difference.
During your hearing, stay calm, confident, and professional. Be clear about why you believe your home’s valuation is incorrect and use your evidence to support your claim. Many homeowners walk away with a reduced valuation simply by presenting solid facts and making a reasonable case.
Property tax protests aren’t a one-and-done deal. The market changes, your home’s value fluctuates, and appraisals can be off year after year. Even if you succeed this year, make it a habit to review your valuation annually and protest if necessary.
Protesting your property taxes might seem daunting, but it’s one of the most effective ways to ensure you’re not overpaying. A little effort can lead to serious savings—sometimes thousands of dollars per year!
If you need help pulling comps or understanding the market, the Giles Group has your back. Let’s make sure you’re paying only what’s fair—nothing more, nothing less.
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