Check out this story in the San Jose Mercury - due to a computer error, some Santa Clara County residents will be getting a supplemental tax bill.

According to this article, an unknown number (possibly 3300) homes were not assessed at the proper value, so supplemental bills will be sent out. Per the Mercury, "People who bought newer homes at the lower end of the market — especially townhomes — are most likely to be affected."

If you wish to appeal your current property taxes in Santa Clara County based on current market value of your home, the Santa Clara County Assessor will give you important information about the filing deadlines and process.

The appeal filing period is about to begin — July 2 to September 15 — and the Prop 8 request deadline is August 15.

Click here to go to the SCC Assessor's site to learn more about the appeal process.

Back in February I wrote about a letter I (and many others) received offering to "adjust" property taxes on current property values for a small fee …. with a $30 late fee imposed if the person replied after XX date. Here's a link to an article with an update about that solicitation–charges have been filed against the sender!

Man Charged in Alleged Property Reassessment Solicitation

First, make sure you will be on the benefiting end of the re-assessment process. If you:

- Purchased more than 5 years ago
- Significantly remodelled, added on, or rehabbed the home
- Added additional structures (second home, barn, garage)
- Performed non-permitted alterations

….initiating the process may not be a cost-saving step.

First get a market analysis prepared by a real estate agent who knows the area and can provide current comps to compare to or support your property value. Should the comps prove your assessed value is elevated enough to justify requesting a change, you will need the comps to support your claim.

Santa Clara County Tax Assessor's office will send to the new owner a statement of assessed value. The buyer has 60 days which to appeal the assessed value.

The assessed value may be lesser, equal to, or greater than the purchase price. Keep an eye out for this statement and don't assume it's equal to what you paid. Obviously if the difference is a minor amount, appealing may not be a valuable tactic. Be aware that there is a limited time to address what you feel may be a discrepancy.

If the purchase is an investment property, make sure the county has a valid mailing address on file for you. Mail sent to the physical location may not be deliverable!