The Westfield tax assessment appeal season is coming soon. In fact, the first quarter is when Westfield homeowners can file their appeals. I’ve seen so many people whose own homes would be more attractive to buyers if the property taxes were lower. By the same token, I’ve also seen many buyers who would be able to afford more “home” if the property taxes were lower. That peaked my interest in the whole tax appeal process. I’ve even appealed my own taxes and currently benefit from that. Since the Westfield tax assessment appeal season opens up on Monday, I wanted to share with you what I’ve learned about the process.
Helpful Westfield Tax Assessment Appeal Info
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Back in February of this year, I hosted a free Westfield tax appeal seminar featuring Jennifer Jacobus, Esq. She handles these kinds of cases exclusively. Click the video above to watch the seminar for free. Learn what Ms. Jacobus had to say about her experience as well as the entire tax assessment appeal process.
Who Can Appeal Their Westfield Tax Assessment?
Basically, anyone who owns property in Westfield has the right to file an appeal of their tax assessment. However, if you own a commercial property and your tenant pays the property taxes, they would have to file an appeal. If your property is owned under an LLC, you cannot file an appeal as an individual. For Westfield homeowners, this shouldn’t be an issue.
What Constitutes Grounds for an Appeal?
If a tax assessor used incomplete or inaccurate information to create your assessment, you could have a case. For example, they show your Westfield home at 2400 square feet but you really only have 1900 square feet of living space. That could put your tax assessment at a much higher rate than it should be. Also, if that taxable value of your Westfield home is higher than that of similar homes in your neighborhood, you may have a case. Finally, if the assessor overestimated the current market value, you might be able to appeal. However, it must be at least 15% higher in order to be considered. If the assessor suggested a current market value of $700,000 but it is really $680,000, that’s not enough of a discrepancy in the assessor’s eyes.
Please take the time to watch the video above. Ms. Jacobus offers some valuable insight and answers to common Westfield tax assessment appeal questions. It’s well worth your time to watch.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes
