Hello Sussex County!
Let's start with a quick recap from our last video. So, what is property reassessment? In simple terms, it's the process of updating property values to ensure everyone pays their fair share of taxes, based on the current market value. As property values change over time, reassessment keeps things fair by reflecting those changes.
The goal? A fair distribution of the tax burden, ensuring no one overpays or underpays. Property taxes fund essential services like schools, libraries, and public safety. By keeping property values current, reassessment ensures our county thrives.
In our previous example, we explained how the tax rate is calculated based on the total value of properties, and how that tax rate is applied to each property based on its value. If property values increase equally, taxes stay the same. But if values change at different rates, the tax burden is redistributed to reflect those changes.

Here are some key takeaways:
1. Property taxes fund essential services.
2. An increase in property value doesn't always mean higher taxes.
3. Taxes are based on the cost to fund services like schools, libraries, and public safety. 
Now that you understand reassessment, let's dive into the next step: Your Tentative Value Notice.

Tentative Value Notice
You'll be receiving your Tentative Value Notice in the mail this November. It's crucial to review the information on this notice. There will be three types of notices, depending on your property's classification:
Residential/Commercial
Farmland enrolled in an Agricultural Program
Farmland  not in the Agricultural Program (you will also receive an application if you choose to apply ).

The notice looks like this. Again, make sure you read it line by line. 
Key points to remember:
The value on the notice cannot be used to calculate your tax bill because tax rates will change.
The value represents the market value as of July 1, 2023.
If you own farmland enrolled in the Agricultural Program, you'll see two values: assessed value and taxable value. The taxable  value takes into consideration “value in use” since the property in part or in whole is being used for farming purposes. 

Disagree with Your Value? Here's What to Do
If you disagree with the assessed value on your notice, don't worry! Starting November 7th 2024, you can schedule an informal review with Tyler Technologies staff by calling 1-833-703-4016, Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30 pm or by visiting sussexcountyde.gov/sussex-county-reassessment
You must have your Tentative Value Notice when scheduling your appointment.
On the back of your notice, you'll find information on acceptable forms of evidence you can present during your review, such as sales comparison data. Using sites like Zillow to gather information about similar properties can be helpful when building your case.

Formal Appeals Process
If you're still not satisfied after the informal review, you can enter the Formal Appeals Process. At this stage, you'll meet with a referee to discuss your case. If an agreement is reached, it will be approved by the Board of Assessment. If not, you'll move forward with a formal hearing with the Board. To enter in the formal appeal process, you must submit an application to the Board beginning March 1st. 

Scheduling and Next Steps
Here's what you need to know about the upcoming timeline:
Tentative Value Notices will be mailed in November.
If you don't agree with your notice, begin gathering your support.
Schedule your informal review beginning  November 7, 2024.
It is helpful to submit all supporting documentation in advance to sussexcountyde@tylertech.com
To schedule your appointment for your informal appeal, contact 1-833-703-4016 or visit sussexcountyde.gov/sussex-county-reassessment. Remember, office hours for appointments are Monday - Friday, 8am - 5 pm. 

Thank you for watching! We hope this video helps you navigate the reassessment and appeals process with ease.