OK, so we promise this is the last post about Tax Assessments- but as we are still getting calls and emails, we thought we'd outline how to appeal, if you want to go down that road:
Since you’ve opened the envelope from your Municipality, you’re likely in good company with others who have experienced up to a 35% increase over last year’s Assessed Value.
If you don’t think the assessment is fair, or believe the new value is out of line with your neighbour’s house, you can ask for a reconsideration. It will take some time & a nominal fee. Deadline to appeal is January 31st.
The process itself is relatively simple – and you will have five minutes to appear before a panel of volunteers, who will generally deliberate for another 5 minutes – at the most.
Should you bother? We’ve helped clients do it before – and we can tell you that the system isn’t perfect. However, we have heard that about half of the appeals provide some reduction in assessed value, so it may be worth the effort. If You wish to appeal should know that you need to make a really good case for your argument.
Start by looking up your assessments on BCA's e-valueBC website. Details include a photo, a property description (land and buildings), the total assessed value, the previous year’s value, the legal description, and property ID. If property details are incorrect, you will be directed to complete and submit an e-valueBC Data Validation Form.
Don’t just compare your online numbers to your neighbors - walk around your neighborhood & take photos. You are welcome to call us for some information on neighborhood sales so that we can help you state your case. info@thebottoteam.com.
Will my taxes rise by the amount of the increase? No. While typically we should steel ourselves for a heftier bill, some taxes may actually fall if the increase is below the average for the community, OR if the Municipal Budget stays the same as the previous year (Laughing yet??).
As always, we are here to help.
Call (604) 984-7253 or email (info@thebottoteam.com) anytime.
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.
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