If you own a home in Central Texas, don’t be surprised if your 2025 property tax appraisal looks way higher than last year’s. Across the region, including Austin, Dallas, and El Paso, homeowners are seeing jumps in appraised value by as much as 40% in just one year. It's enough to make your heart skip a beat when you open that envelope.
So, what’s going on?
Why Are Property Appraisals Going Up?
Each year on January 1, appraisal districts are required by Texas law to assess properties at 100% of their current market value. And with our local housing market staying strong, those appraisals are climbing to match the demand and rising home prices.
Here in Texas, we don’t have a state income tax, which means property taxes are a major way the state funds public schools, infrastructure, and services. So when your home's value goes up, your tax bill often does too.
You Can Protest Your Appraisal. Here’s How
If your new appraisal seems too high, don’t panic. You have the right to protest, and it’s not as hard as you might think. Here’s a quick rundown of how to do it:
1. Know Your Deadline
You typically have until May 15, or 30 days after you receive your Notice of Appraised Value, whichever is later. Missing this deadline can limit your options, so mark your calendar!
2. File a Notice of Protest
You’ll need to fill out Form 50-132 and send it to your county’s Appraisal Review Board (ARB). You can usually file online, by mail, or in person. For example, if you’re in Travis County, there’s a handy e-File system available online.
3. Gather Your Evidence
To build your case, collect anything that shows your home might be overvalued:
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Recent sales of similar homes nearby
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Photos that show needed repairs or damage
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A recent private appraisal, if you have one
4. Attend Your Hearing
You can present your case in person, by phone, or by submitting a written affidavit. Come prepared to explain your evidence clearly and calmly, and don’t be afraid to speak up if something doesn’t seem right.
5. Consider Hiring a Pro
If this all feels overwhelming or you’re not sure where to start, you can work with a property tax consultant or real estate attorney. Sometimes, a little help can go a long way.
A Few More Helpful Tips
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Didn’t get a notice in the mail? You can still check your property’s assessed value on your local appraisal district’s website.
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If you miss the protest deadline, there might still be options, for example, if there was a clerical error or the value is way off base.
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Lowering your appraised value now can help reduce your tax burden in future years, since tax increases are often based on your current valuation.
Final Thoughts
Nobody loves dealing with property taxes, but staying informed and proactive can make a huge difference. If you have questions about your appraisal or want help understanding your options, I’m here as a resource, not just as a real estate agent, but as someone who lives and works in the same market you do.
Want to look up your home's assessed value or file an appeal? Head over to your local appraisal district’s website or the Texas Comptroller’s site for more information.
