Property Tax Lawyers in Decatur

In Decatur, Georgia, the government imposes a tax (a legally-mandated payment made to the government) on real property. "Real property" is defined as any piece of land, or object permanently or semi-permanently affixed to the land (such as buildings, trees, minerals, etc.).

Decatur, Georgia measures property taxes simply by taking a percentage of the property's value. Usually, they are paid on a yearly or monthly basis.

Federal authorities do not collect a property tax. Only state and local governments collect property taxes, as a general matter.

How Property Tax is Calculated in Decatur, Georgia

Property tax in Decatur, Georgia almost always takes the form of a tax levied on the appraised value of the property in question. Property tax rates in the U.S. range from 0.2% to around 5% of the property's value.

In order to levy this tax, the tax authorities in Decatur, Georgia must have an uniform formula for figuring out the value of a given piece of property.

In many ways, the value of a piece of land is relative. After all, many people ascribe sentimental value to their homes, which goes well beyond its market value. To ensure that the system is fair, the government uses only objective standards to determine value.

There are many different ways to value property using objective factors. Generally, the appraiser in Decatur, Georgia will consider the current state of the real estate market, the size of the property, any improvements (buildings, roads, etc.) that have been made on the property, and the manner in which the property may be legally used (zoning).

How A Decatur, Georgia Property Tax Attorney Can Help.

In Decatur, Georgia, property taxes can become pretty complex. Legal disputes can arise in the property tax context, even if there is no wrongdoing, and the dispute arises from an honest misunderstanding. You might have a good reason to suspect that a mistake was made when your property was appraised, resulting in a higher tax bill than you believe you legally owe, for example.

If you encounter a legal issue with your Decatur, Georgia property taxes, and don't handle it properly, unnecessary inconvenience and expense can result. If you have the assistance of a competent tax attorney in Decatur, Georgia, however, the odds of encountering such a problem will be small.