Challenging Tax Assessments

It's no secret that local governments are hurting financially these days. And, property taxes are a huge source of funding. It's only natural that they'd turn once again to this potential source of additional funds.

Of course, the problem is that home values have declined substantially and so, in the normal course of things, you'd expect the assessments to decline as well.

But most of us will not see assessments that look anything like what our homes are actually worth.

I'm sympathetic to government's need for funds to keep important things like schools, fire fighters and police working. But I also know how hard things are for many families right now.

If your property tax assessment looks out of whack, don't be afraid to challenge it. The Virginia Homeowner's Alliance is now giving you the tools to do just that.

And, while you're there, think about joining. It's a great and growing organization and it won't cost you a penny to join!