Texas Property Tax Guide: What New Homeowners Need To Know In 2025
If you pay property tax, there are some things you do in order to better manage the cost or even get a reduction. While this article focuses on Texas there’s some great tips for all homeowners
As property values continue to climb across Texas, understanding property taxes has become increasingly crucial for homeowners. “We’re seeing more buyers in the Killeen real estate market asking detailed questions about property taxes before making purchase decisions,” notes local tax assessor Sarah Thompson. “It’s no longer just about the purchase price – savvy buyers want to understand their total cost of ownership.”
While this article focuses mainly on new changes to the laws in Texas, it contains advice anyone can follow if you’re in the market for a new property.
Recent Changes In Texas Property Tax Laws
The Texas Legislature has implemented several significant changes to property tax laws that homeowners should understand:
Homestead Exemption Increase
The standard homestead exemption for school district property taxes has increased to $100,000, up from the previous $40,000. This substantial increase provides considerable relief for primary residence homeowners across the state. To qualify, you must own and occupy the home as your primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year.
Property Tax Rate Compression
School district tax rates continue to be compressed, with districts required to lower their maintenance and operations (M&O) tax rates when property values increase beyond certain thresholds. This mechanism helps offset rising property values, though actual tax savings vary by district.
Over-65 and Disabled Persons Benefits
Homeowners who are 65 or older or disabled now receive additional protections, including a frozen school tax ceiling that can transfer when moving within Texas. The ceiling amount has been adjusted to reflect the increased homestead exemption.
Understanding Your Property Tax Bill
Texas property taxes are composed of several elements:
School District Taxes
Typically the largest portion of your tax bill (often 40-60%) Subject to homestead exemptions and rate compression Rate varies by district
County Taxes Fund
County services and operations Rates vary significantly between counties May include special assessments for specific services
City Taxes Fund
Municipal services Rates vary by city May include additional fees for specific improvements or services
Special Districts
This can include hospital districts, utility districts, and other special purpose districts Rates and services vary by location
Practical Tips for Managing Property Taxes
There are several ways you can look at reducing your property taxes. Some of the more common methods are:
File for Homestead Exemption Promptly
- Submit application as soon as you qualify
- Deadline is April 30 each year
- Can be filed online in most counties
- Provides significant tax savings
Review Your Property Value Assessment
- Notice of assessed value typically arrives in April/May
- Compare with similar properties in your area
- Check for errors in property details
- Document any property condition issues that might affect value
Protest When Appropriate Important Deadlines
- May 15 or 30 days after notice of assessed value
- File even if you’re still gathering evidence
- Can withdraw protest later if needed
Grounds for Protest
If you feel that your property tax has been calculated incorrectly, you can look at the following factors which might allow you to query the valuation:
- Market value too high
- Unequal appraisal compared to similar properties
- Errors in property description
- Failure to provide required notices
Consider Payment Options
- Pay early for discounts (if available in your county)
- Set up monthly escrow through mortgage lender
- Investigate installment payment plans
- Check for additional exemptions you might qualify for
Plan for Future Increases
- Budget for potential value increases
- Consider appeal costs in annual budget
- Monitor local development that might impact values
- Stay informed about legislative changes
Essential Documents To Keep
- Purchase closing documents
- Home improvement receipts
- Property tax statements
- Protest documentation
- Exemption applications and approvals
Understanding The Appeal Process
If you decide to protest your property valuation
Informal Meeting
- First step in most districts
- Bring documentation supporting your position
- Can often resolve issues without formal hearing
- Opportunity to understand the assessor’s methodology
Formal Hearing
- Present your case to Appraisal Review Board (ARB)
- Limited time to make your case (typically 15-20 minutes)
- Must provide evidence packets in advance
- Can request evening or weekend hearings in many districts
Special Considerations for New Construction
For newly constructed homes:
- First-year valuation may be partial
- Improvements completed after January 1 not taxed until following year
- Builder’s inventory may have different valuation methods
- Check for developer agreements affecting tax rates
Looking Ahead: Future Changes
Several potential changes are being discussed for future implementation:
- Additional property tax relief measures
- Changes to appraisal caps
- Modified protest procedures
- Enhanced exemptions for specific groups
Online Resources and Tools
Take advantage of available resources:
- County appraisal district websites
- Texas Comptroller’s property tax assistance
- Online property tax estimators
- Local tax assessor-collector offices
Conclusion
Managing property taxes requires ongoing attention and understanding of both local and state requirements. By staying informed about changes, taking advantage of available exemptions, and carefully reviewing assessments, homeowners can better manage their property tax obligations. Remember that local tax offices and appraisal districts are valuable resources for specific questions about your property taxes.
The key to successfully managing property taxes is staying proactive – file exemptions promptly, review valuations carefully, and maintain good records. While the system can seem complex, understanding your rights and responsibilities as a property owner will help you make informed decisions and potentially save money through available exemptions and proper protests when warranted.