Guide to Property Assessors Offices - Georgia

Property assessors' offices in Georgia have valuable property information
By Maria St. Louis-Sanchez

Property assessors in Georgia estimate property values for tax purposes. However, the records that the agencies collect can be invaluable for the investor or property owner when researching Georgia land values and property values in Georgia.

Familiarizing yourself with Georgia property assessors can be very useful. The data they collect are public records, thus usually easy for people to search. The information provided through property assessors offices in Georgia can be used to:

1. Research Georgia property assessments to learn the value of your property and the others that surround it.

2. Determine taxes or potential taxes on properties. These tax determinations can help you find some of the added costs to owning the property.

3. Research potential properties through real estate records. Old sale records can help investors know a property's true worth.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use online databases to find property values in Georgia There are various ways to find online records for property assessors' offices. Georgia has several options. Since property records are public information, there are many Georgia counties that offer free property and tax record searches online.

I recommend: These Georgia counties are just some that offer free online searchable databases: Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett and Fulton. Also, Assessor Links USA has a complete list of Georgia property assessor offices.

Know the laws of Georgia property assessment Knowing the laws for property assessment in Georgia can help property owners better understand their tax bill and possibly work to lower it. For example, there are several property tax exemptions available in certain counties in Georgia available to seniors or veterans.

I recommend: The Georgia Department of Revenue has a guide to property tax which outlines property tax laws and exemptions. The Cobb County website explains exemptions available in the county and throughout Georgia. Also, there are links for the specific exemption form.

Know the process to question Georgia property values or appeal your tax rate Don't hesitate to appeal if you feel an inaccurate property assessment in Georgia will cost you more in taxes. Oftentimes, Georgia property assessors are estimating hundreds of property values and it is not uncommon for them to make mistakes. If you feel your property taxes are inflated, appealing them could save you a lot of money.

I recommend: The Georgia Department of Revenue outlines the appeals process for property taxes. A Georgia lawyer recommended by the American Property Tax Counsel can help to file an appeal on property tax.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

Use the online records of Georgia property assessments to research your tax bill and those of your neighbors. If your bill looks higher than similar properties, don't be afraid to call the assessor's office and ask questions.
The Georgia property assessor's estimated value may not be the true worth of the home. If you are thinking of selling or buying, use an appraiser.