The Assessor's office does not usually consider the following items when determining fair cash value. This is because the value contribution is negligible compared to the rest of the property's functional utility, the items are personal property or the items are not considered real property.
- Driveways, sidewalks and driveway ribbons
- Landscaping including foliage and related retaining walls, etc.
- Privacy fences
- Garden sheds
- Above-ground hot tubs
- Above-ground pools
- The number of bedrooms
- The total number of rooms
Further, the expectations of buyers in that particular neighborhood are considered. For example, a three-car garage would usually add value if they are not aberrant in the neighborhood. However, a four-car garage would not necessarily receive the same incremental value adjustment because it would likely be super-adequate (over-development) for the neighborhood.
Starting in 2014, the Assessor's office will also be considering the Principle of Surplus Land in its determination of the land component values of properties. For this reason, many neighborhoods will see their land components determined via the Site Method versus the Square Foot Method. The end result will be a much higher level of uniformity in the neighborhood's assessments.
We realize we're making some significant changes and want all taxpayers to fully understand the process. Once that understanding is achieved, we're confident they will have a much higher trust in the assessments they receive.
To help achieve that understanding, the Assessor's office is ready (and eager) to make presentations to interested groups including Home Owners Associations, civic organizations, and neighborhood groups. Please ask and we will happily and promptly respond.