Search for low tax rates in Chester County (Philadelphia, West Chester: new house, best schools)

[rvs053063]

Does anyone know of a resource where I can compare the various property tax rates in my locale? We're thinking of building a new home, and tax rates are a consideration in terms of where we move. Thanks! Rick.

[William shivers]

the only way to get that info is to check each municaplity/township. online or over the phone. New homes get taxed at 100% make sure you leave the basement unfinished or the taxes will be higher, it's based on finished living space.

[wallstreet1986]

Not sure. Althroughout chester county it is fairly low.

I think about 1 to 1.25 percent of house value per year. Appraised value makes it lower because we are in a bubble. If you build a new house you will have to pay a higher tax because of that higher house value.

The bigger issue is the cost of land and building the house. I would recommend West Chester area, Great Valley, and Tredyffrin Easttown. Best schools and closest to the city. Sure you can build in Downingtown or Exton but the schools are not good ie avoid Owen J Roberts.

[Finn McCool]

West Chester, Exton has lowest taxes in area. Stay away from Delaware Co, Bucks and Philadelphia counties unelss you want to pay high taxes.

[PlainJane]

Take a look at Downingtown Schools-they are much better than you may believe. The area is full of professionals and most families use the public schools, so they demand a little more. Downingtown Area School District encompasses Chester Springs, Exton, Uwchlan, Upper Uwchlan, East Caln and the borough of Downingtown.

[Custom Draper]

Yes, I must say I was quite surprised by the comment above stating that the Downingtown schools were not good. The schools are rated very high - all 9s and 10s on a scale of 1-10 on www.greatschools.net. Very impressive.