[Hanne]

We've been looking at for-sale properties and have noticed the great variability in property taxes. Though we have 40 plus acres where we live, we've always been accustomed to low property taxes due to our land classification being "agricultural". In Michigan, is there some sort of classification that takes the sting out of owning multiple acres? Also, what's up with the homestead vs non-homestead rates of taxation?
Thanks,
Hanne in OHio

[Hanne]

Does anyone know of any websites where I can find out more about property tax rates and classifications in Michigan?
Hanne

[magellan]

Homestead and Non-homestead was set up a few years ago to tax vacation property at a higher rate than your primary home. It was probably a bad idea, but at the time, it lowered primary home tax rates (which everyone is for lower tax rates at all costs it seems).

Don't know about agricultural vs. residential tax rates though. For general tax rates, you usually have to go to the particular county's website where you are looking for a home and then they usually have tax tables.

[nickbii]

Originally Posted by Hanne

We've been looking at for-sale properties and have noticed the great variability in property taxes. Though we have 40 plus acres where we live, we've always been accustomed to low property taxes due to our land classification being "agricultural". In Michigan, is there some sort of classification that takes the sting out of owning multiple acres? Also, what's up with the homestead vs non-homestead rates of taxation?
Thanks,
Hanne in OHio

I surprised our property taxes impress you. Ohio has things like Public Libraries, and the property taxes it takes to pay for them.

Nick

[frazzledmom]

I think you could talk to some realtors, they know the taxes and tax rates. There is a lot of variability among counties, I moved from Oakland county, one of the richest in the nation to Macomb county and saved at least 35% on my property taxes; we live in a suburb. But now that our school funding has been cut across the board, I expect our property taxes to go up.

[jaynarie]

What area are you wanting to move to? I know that in Genesee county, Thetford Township has the best tax rates. Lapeer County is low compared to Genesee as well. Flint is in Genesee County, if you don't know the areas well.

[Hanne]

Thanks, you guys, for the info. Jaynarie, we aren't sure where we're gonna end up but it looks like tax rates will influence our decision.

Frazzledmom, my husband is from Oakland county.

Nick, I looove having those libraries! Tax me if you must.

Magellan, that helps a lot to know what the classification is when we see the tax bill is for a property. What a difference, is some cases.

Mucho thanko,
Hanne

[D_J]

Typically agriculture taxes are quite a bit cheaper vs. residential tax.