Are You Paying Too Much in Property Taxes? Here’s How to Know

Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: you might be paying more in property taxes than you should.

Your property tax bill is based on your home’s assessed value. Not what you paid for the home, not what Zillow estimates, and not what the current market says. And sometimes, that assessed number isn’t accurate.

Maybe the property was overvalued compared to similar homes in the neighborhood.
Maybe the county didn’t adjust records after market changes.
Maybe the assessment hasn’t been reviewed in years.

Whatever the reason, if the assessed value is higher than your home’s actual worth, you’re likely paying too much. The good news? You can appeal it.

And for many homeowners, the process is simpler than they expect.

How to Check Whether Your Property Tax Bill Is Too High

Here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow:

1. Look Up Your Assessed Value

You’ll find it on your tax bill or your county assessor’s website.
(Marin homeowners:  yes, your appeal must be submitted in blue ink! It’s a thing.)

2. Compare It to the Real Market

Review recent sales of comparable homes in your neighborhood.
If you’re unsure what qualifies as a “comp,” working with an appraiser or a local real estate professional can help you get clarity.

3. Gather Evidence

Save or print comparable sales, property reports, and/or a recent appraisal.
You’ll use these documents to make your case.

4. File the Appeal

Submit everything to your county assessor’s office before the deadline.
Each county sets its own timeline, so check the due date for your area.

5. Wait for Review

If your appeal is approved, your tax bill could decrease and those savings can continue every single year.

Why This Matters

Appealing your assessed value isn’t something most homeowners think about.
But keeping more of your money in your pocket is one of the foundations of long-term wealth building.

This is the kind of strategic, behind-the-scenes move that can make a real difference over time  especially in high-cost counties like Marin, Sonoma, and San Francisco.

For your convenience, here are the local appeal pages:

Marin County: https://www.marincounty.gov/departments/board/appeal-your-property-tax-assessment

Sonoma County: https://sonomacounty.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/board-of-supervisors/services-and-information/assessment-appeals

San Francisco County: https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step–file-appeal-contest-your-property-value

Final Thoughts

If we were sitting together over coffee, this is exactly the kind of tip I’d share because small financial wins add up.

If you’re unsure whether your property assessment looks too high, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help you review it or point you in the right direction.