With the decline in property values, many homeowners are facing a new property tax problem.  Their property tax assessments are well in excess of current value. 

Although it is a widely held belief that a property tax assessment can only be appealed when an assessment notice is received, there are 2 other opportunities to appeal.
 
            1.  NEW HOMEBUYER:  If a property transfer occurs between January 1 and July 1, the new property owner has 60 days to from the date of transfer to appeal.  The appeal is made in writing, and can be ruled on based on the written appeal, or upon a hearing if the homebuyer desires a hearing.
 
This is an important right that most new homebuyers do not know about! 
 
            2.   HOMEOWNER:  A homeowner can file a petition for review of an assessment based on an event or events that have caused their property value to decline since the last assessment.  The appeal is made in writing, and can be ruled on based on the written appeal, or upon a hearing if the homeowner desires a hearing.
 
For further information regarding the appeal process, please go to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation  website at:

http://www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/appeal.html

Main Street Settlements 
3406 Olanwood Drive, Olney, Md.  20832
301-570-3600