Could my property taxes go up if I appeal my home's value?

To make it simple - there is always a chance that a change in your property value could occur during the appeal process. Typically, that can be a very good result - first the property's value and/or characteristics have been updated for the Auditor's future use as a part of the appeal process. So the taxing authority now has a better record for establishing future taxes on the property.

Secondly, if the property value is reduced based on the information presented in the appeal, your future or in some cases even back-dated taxes could be reduced.  You have lowered your tax dollar expense.  

However, there are times in the appeal process where where items are revealed that might not have been identified through the mass appraisal process that the county performs. Examples include and are definitely not limited to: a bedroom that wasn't reported; finished basement and rec room never picked up; more bathrooms exist than documented; remodeling that increases the overall condition rating of the property.

For these reasons and others, that is why it is so important to understand the information that is maintained on your property by the associated taxing authority.  And in some cases its even understanding how those items may impact property value. The taxing authorities are armed with a variety of data sources, their internal databases, and experienced staff that when you address this across the table - they are already prepared to discuss your property and its value.   

If you are going to appeal - know your property and know how the county or municipality knows your property... Inside and Out!