Are You Paying Too Much in Property Taxes? How to Appeal Your Assessment
Owning a home comes with many joys—but when that property tax bill arrives, it can raise some questions. Especially in a market where values have shifted, many Ventura County homeowners wonder: Am I being overcharged?
If your property’s assessed value doesn’t align with today’s real-world market, it might be time to appeal. The good news? California law gives homeowners the right to contest their tax assessments—and you don’t need to be a lawyer to start.
Step 1: Understand Your Assessment
Each year, the county tax assessor estimates your home’s value based on market activity. That value is multiplied by a tax rate (usually around 1.1%) to calculate what you owe.
But that assessed value isn’t always accurate—especially if the market slowed down after your purchase or if the home’s condition was overestimated.
Step 2: Compare Real Market Values
Look at recent comparable home sales (I’m happy to provide a list!). If homes similar to yours are selling for less than your assessed value, you may have a case.
You’ll also want to document any issues that could reduce your home’s value, such as outdated systems, deferred maintenance, or location-specific concerns.
Step 3: File Your Appeal
In Ventura County, you typically have until September 15 to appeal your assessment. You’ll file with the Assessment Appeals Board and include:
- A completed application
- Comparable sales or market data
- Any relevant inspection reports or contractor estimates
Final Thoughts
Don’t let your tax bill go unchallenged just because the process feels overwhelming. I’m here to help you compare comps, understand your home’s fair value, and connect you with local resources. Because part of smart homeownership is knowing when to speak up—and how to save where it counts.
