How can the value of my property have increased when I haven't done anything to it for many years?
Property value, or market value, is determined by many factors besides home improvements. Improving neighborhoods, how many houses are for sale, and inflation also affect the value of your property. Even though your house isn't for sale, it can be worth more because of these conditions. It is the Assessor's job to determine what your property would be worth if it was now for sale.

Why do similar houses in different neighborhoods have different assessments?                   The houses are valued differently because their actual market values vary. The market values are different because the real estate market conditions are different. Location plays an important part in establishing market value. General location, distance from schools and commercial facilities, quality of surrounding properties, and neighborhood amenities are examples of factors that could and would cause a purchaser to pay more for a home in one neighborhood than in another.

My taxes are too high!
That may be true, but don't necessarily blame it on the property assessment or the Assessor. Their job is to estimate the value of every property in the township as close to 1/3 of market value as possible. This will assure that each taxpayer will bear a "fair share" of the tax burden. The amount of taxes is determined by the voters, the municipalities, school boards, and other taxing bodies in the area.

Can I examine the Assessor's records to be sure they have the correct information on my house?
Yes. If you would like to review your Record Card, stop in to the Assessor's office at 301 East Indiana Ave., in Beecher, Illinois. With a few specific exceptions, all assessment files are open to the public. Not only is information about your home available, records about other homes in the area are also accessible. The Township Assessor's personnel will help you retrieve the information needed, as well as answer questions regarding the assessment or how to read the information.

Does the Assessor raise the assessment if I paint my house?                                                 No. Most normal maintenance of the home will not raise the assessment. Additions to the home, such as; in ground swimming pools, decks, porches, or fireplaces, etc., may add considerable value to the home and may increase the assessment.

What do I do if I do not agree with the assessment?
The best place to start is by contacting the Assessor's Office in person or by phone. We will listen to why you feel there is a problem with the assessment, and explain our position. Most problems are cleared up after talking to the Assessor, but if you are still not satisfied a complaint may be filed with the Will County Board of Review.

When I get my tax bill, is it too late to complain?
Generally yes. It is too late to appeal for that assessment year, unless you have already filed with the Board of Review. It might still be beneficial to talk with the Assessor, if you have not done so already, for the current assessment year.

If I purchase my home for more than it is assessed, will my assessment get raised to the sale price?
Not necessarily. Properties are studied in neighborhoods, not individually. If other sales besides yours in the neighborhood were typically higher, then an assessment increase would be warranted. If the Assessor was to increase individual assessments because of sales, inequity would be created in the neighborhood.

Washington Township Center

30200 Town Center Road

Beecher, IL 60401

(708) 946-2026