Property Tax Roundup
April 10, 2007
Ever since the day I got my first paycheck and saw how much of my income went to pay taxes, I’ve been mad about paying taxes. Now that I’m a home owner and real estate agent, the tax that upsets me the most is property tax. I personally have been subjected to increases over the last few years of 30% -40%, due to revaluations and mill rate increases. That is obscene.
According to the Tax Foundation, Connecticut taxpayers have the highest state/local tax burden in the country. This is not something to be proud of.
People think that property taxes effect property owners only and who can feel sorry for them? But property taxes affect everyone – who do you think pays for the property tax increases at rental properties? Not the landlord, if he/she can help it.
So, if you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, you should know what your town plans to do to your taxes (or your rent). And if you don’t want to continue paying more, do something about it by speaking at one of your town’s budget meetings, calling/e-mailing/writing your representatives, and get informed about what your town is doing.
Here’s a roundup about budget news/property taxes in some towns around the area:
Enfield Revaluation & Enfield Budget
Entry Filed under: Connecticut, Housing, Taxes, Tenants. .
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1. Athol Kay | April 10, 2007 at 1:52 pm
It’s realy amazing how much property taxes affect the value of property too. The “same house” on one side of a town line can be 20-30% more expensive to buy than one on the other side of the town line. Cheap house has higher property taxes….
2. Susan | April 11, 2007 at 1:44 am
Wow, I do not know what to say that is not blatantly political and still respectful of this blog… except to say: Have you any idea how many people purposely move to Connecticut because we respect how this state cares for it’s citizens? I have no problem with taxes here, Connecticut provides humane care to those who need it and I am so proud to live in a place that understands that. I moved here knowing I would be paying three times the taxes I paid out west and I’m here for that very reason.
3. berealct | April 11, 2007 at 1:05 pm
Connecticut is a wonderful place to live for everyone and yes, we are a caring and welcoming state. I would agree with high taxes if all or even most of the money really did go to good causes and was spent wisely. The problem is that it does not always go to good causes and it is often not spent wisely.
I have many personal experiences either working for or with government entities and my experience is that they are grossly inefficient, plagued by nepotism, and are very willing to spend what is not theirs. Good, smart people work for government but they seem to be swallowed by its giant machine.
Government must be checked on all levels by its citizens -especially the government’s power to tax. The purpose of this post was merely to remind people to speak out about their taxes – whether you support or are against higher taxes, such as property taxes, then get involved and make your voice heard.
4. Susan | April 12, 2007 at 1:03 am
I suspect strongly that you cater to a very different clientele than my friends and family. I deeply appreciate your honesty. Best wishes for your success!
5. berealct | April 12, 2007 at 1:18 pm
My views on property taxes really has nothing to do with what type of clientele I serve. However, I think my clients appreciate the fact that I am an advocate for them – both at the negotiating table and in our community. My profession of real estate gives me particular insight into the impact that high housing costs and high taxes have on towns and individuals of all socio-economic backgrounds. For me not to voice my opinions on matters that affect real estate buyers and homeowners would not serve my clients best.
6. Susan | April 13, 2007 at 12:21 am
I love your answer! I hope you forgive me for being a devils advocate. I think this should up shut up many doubters. Bravo, Jessica.
7. berealct | April 13, 2007 at 9:19 pm
Taxes get me fired up and when I’m engaged, watch out!