Washington State Counties Mailing New Assessed Value Notices

It’s that time of year again. You will be receiving your 2022 property assessments from the county. Unfortunately, the hot property market coupled with record inflation has resulted in some of our clients seeing 20-40% increases in their assessed value – and a corresponding expected massive increase in their property taxes and mortgage payments.

Washington State allows for a robust appeals process – but the approach must be data driven and well supported. You are essentially suing the assessor for a lower valuation, and “it’s not fair” is not compelling evidence. Retaining an attorney or real estate professional is almost a must-do to be successful.

There are a few things you can do to prepare for the appeal if you are looking to do it yourself:

• Review Title 458 of the Washington Administrative Code
• Refer to your county timelines and procedures on the county assessor’s website.
• Look at the guidance on this site for Washington tax appeals.
• Check on the process for further appeals on the Washington State Board of Tax Appeals webpage.
• Be well prepared with condition reports, independent appraisals, and other comparative sales and tax rates.
• Approach the hearing and submissions as a factual, not an emotional, exercise.

2022 promises to be a challenging year for Washington State homeowners. We are here to help.