Are your property taxes too high? New research suggests it's pretty likely:
Bottom Line: For the purpose of this story I'm not referring to whether we're generally "over-taxed" locally - that would lead me down a different rabbit hole of unhappiness as we'd evaluate just how much higher our property taxes are throughout Palm Beach County compared to the rest of the state. Instead this story is about something you might have control over outside of the voting booth. Property assessments.
According to the National Taxpayers Union Foundation between 30%-60% of all property taxes accessed nationally are over estimated. That's clearly a huge number! Additionally they cited that fewer than 5% of all homeowners question/challenge their assessments. I can't speak to the percentage locally that might fall into this category but having known, interviewed and studied the process of Palm Beach County's property assessments with our longtime former appraiser, Gary Nikolits, it appeared as though PBC would have below average "over-assessments". That being said mistakes happen and you could end up paying the price. It's a worthwhile endevour to become more informed regarding the process, how your taxes are determined and if your property is being effectively assessed. At worst you become more informed. At best you might find an error that can be challenged and save money this year and for subsequent years to come.
Here's a link to Palm Beach County's Property Appraiser's website to get started: