PSA: Protesting appraised value for new homeowners and file your homestead exemption.

If you are a new Homeowner in Harris County ie., you bought in 2024 or Jan/Feb 2025, your 1st year Property Tax Protest is a simple DIY.

You should have received / will soon receive your value notice. You can check online on HCAD property search as well.

Here’s what to do:

• If the appraised value is LESS than what you paid → Do nothing! Enjoy the lower value (and lower taxes) this year.

• If the appraised value is MORE than what you paid → File a protest on HCAD’s iFile system. It’s a simple DIY process!

How to Protest:

1. Login to iFile using your PIN (printed on the notice or call HCAD to get your PIN).
2. In iFile, under "Reasons for Protest," check "Value is over market value or otherwise incorrect."
3. In the "Sale Information" section, enter your closing price and date.
4. Upload your closing statement as evidence.

There are plenty of YouTube videos that walk you through iFile step by step.

What Happens Next?

In most cases, HCAD will match your closing price or may time-adjust it till December (if you bought in early 2024). You can accept the price in iSettle and conclude your protest.

If that doesn't happen, only then consider going to the ARB and present your closing statement.

I have known people who don't present their closing statement and instead propose a value lower than what they paid for (their justification – they overpaid). And pursue the protest till arbitration!

Btw, be sure to file your homestead exemption online (HCAD website or their mobile app) if you haven't yet. Filing homestead exeption is online and free. Takes about 15 mins. No need to pay anyone for it. If you file before April 30, you can expect it to take effect when the property tax bills go out in fall.

edit: fixed typos.