PROPERTY TAX APPEAL IN CLIFTON, NJ (Passaic Co.)- WILL I BE SUCCESSFUL?

[tahiti]

Originally Posted by awd250

does this mean I'd have to find out how much everyone paid and just use those people that paid around the same as me? It's a townhouse community of about 300 units

yes, within the valid time period. a realtor or appraiser can help you out. you also need to be prepared to give details about each comp property.

[dmccauley]

Originally Posted by awd250

does this mean I'd have to find out how much everyone paid and just use those people that paid around the same as me? It's a townhouse community of about 300 units

They won't let you use shortsales or foreclosures as comp sales. Your appeal should be easy though look at the units that are the same as yours and compare the land and improvement. Everyone should be the same regardless of the time of purchase (land value). If you go onto the county website they have alot of information about each property. Even check out yours (sr1a) thats the form that each assessor is notified on that there was a change of ownership and usually states sheriff sale or family sale so you can count those out.

[robertmazzo]

I sold my house on LaSalle and closed on my new 2-family home near the Allwood Library the same day in Dec of 2005. I think my taxes were about 8k at the time.
In the fall of 2006 we busted out the back of the house and added a brand new modern kitchen with a sliding door to a deck. Plus new windows everywhere, new roof, etc.
Clifton uses every chance they get to come down to inspect (they even came twice after I installed a shed in the back).
Now my taxes are up to 10k and it makes me sick.
It's as if we get penalized for making our home and neighborhoods beautiful. The same thing with the ridiculous sewerage bill (I water my lawn and garden to make it all beautiful and pay for it too).

Anyhow, I am need to get comps as well...can we fight city hall ? I sure hope so...
Bob

[awd250]

I really don't get that, you make you place better and you have to pay for it in taxes....

[polaraurora]

PEOOOOOPLE WAKE UP!!! Put your final tax bill for a few years together and check only one number - TOTAL RATE. You will get the picture. The rate will go up each year. You will pay more no matter what. They just want your money.

[Obrero]

Originally Posted by polaraurora

PEOOOOOPLE WAKE UP!!! Put your final tax bill for a few years together and check only one number - TOTAL RATE. You will get the picture. The rate will go up each year. You will pay more no matter what. They just want your money.

Wow - gosh you are so insightful. Thanks so much for posting this...I just don't know what we did without you.