Property Taxes and Skyrocketing Values: What Hamilton County Homeowners Need To Know.

Blake Watson with Epique Realty covers one of the most talked-about topics

in Hamilton County: property reappraisals and their impact on your property

taxes.

Home values in Hamilton County have skyrocketed—an average increase of about

60% over the last four years, marking the largest jump in the county's history.

If you're worried this means a dramatic increase in your property taxes,

there's good news. Tennessee law prevents local governments from automatically

increasing their revenue due to rising property values. Instead, they must

adjust the tax rate downward—known as a revenue-neutral or rollback rate.

However, cities and counties can vote to raise taxes above this rollback

rate, but only after public hearings. Recent statements indicate Hamilton

County Mayor Weston Wamp and East Ridge’s city manager aren't planning tax

increases, though Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly has yet to commit either way.

While tax rates might remain flat or decrease, homeowners may still see changes

in their tax bills based on how their property values compare to the county

average.

Nearby counties in Tennessee, including Bradley and Sequatchie, are

experiencing similar rapid increases in property values. Northwest Georgia

counties such as Walker, Catoosa, and Dade are also seeing significant rises,

but Georgia’s Property Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights ensures transparency in any

potential tax hikes, requiring public hearings and clear notices if taxes

increase even slightly above the rollback rate.

If you believe your new appraisal is incorrect, you have options. In

Hamilton County, you can request an informal review or file a formal appeal

with the County Board of Equalization by June 6.

Ultimately, whether your taxes increase depends on your home's value change

relative to the county average, local government tax decisions, and whether you

appeal your appraisal. Understanding these elements can help you better manage

your finances and plan your future.

Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate is hosted by Blake Watson with Epique Realty.  He is a Realtor licensed in Tennessee and Georgia.  You can reach Blake directly by phone or text at 423-315-1815, visit his website athomechattanooga.com, connect on Facebook or LinkedIn as Blake Watson, or on Instagram @RockNRollBlake.  If you found this episode helpful, please follow and share the podcast.

Thanks for listening—here's to your real estate success!