The following is based on information (*) passed on from a Montpelier Hills resident, as a reminder about the property tax appeal process.
In this era of economic decline, property taxes may not fall as fast as the home values upon which they are supposed to be based. Prince George's home values lose about a third of their value. (Gazette, Dec 16, 2010)
Appeals to lower your property tax are often successful. The next deadline to file a property tax appeal is January 1, 2011.
A summary of steps to appeal:
Download the "State of Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Petition for Review of Real Property" Form and answer the 7 easy questions.
Go to an estimated home values source such as www.zillow.com to find out the value of your home. Enter this estimated value at line 3 of the petition (current market value).
Print the Zillow page (or other sources) showing your property address and estimated value; and attach it to your form.
At question 3 enter why you think the assessed value is incorrect - such as, "home values have fallen due to the economic downturn", or whatever.
You can choose to schedule a hearing or just have the results mailed to you.
If you have any questions, you can contact
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ASSESSMENTS
Hours: 8:30 to 4:30
(301) 952-2500
FAX: (301) 952-2955
E-mail: princeg@dat.state.md.us
(*) original information provided by Sandra Pruitt
