If you own real estate in South Carolina you inevitably get a tax bill every year. Some people choose to have their property taxes and insurance escrowed (into their mortgage payment) so that they cover all of their required annual expenses into their monthly mortgage payment. Often when this is done, the property owner loses track of their annual tax bill. Once you receive your tax bill make sure that you understand what you are looking at and if it seems incorrect you should immediately file for an appeal. In Richland County you have up until January 15th to appeal your tax bill for the previous year. I am recommending that all of my clients look at their bill and compare them to what has sold in the neighborhood or area. Every property is unique and I commonly find savings at the tax office because property owners are unaware of their rights and privileges. Talk to your SC real estate agent or contact a South Carolina appraiser in your area to hear their suggestions.
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