Frequently Asked Assessing Questions

Q.      What is the purpose of the adjustment?

       A.  The purpose of any equalization process is to more equitably distribute the property tax burden based upon valuation.

Q.      Can I see the records of my property?

       A.  Yes, your assessing records are available during normal office hours for your inspection. You may examine your property record card, the assessment book or the tax maps at any time. An informal hearing may have to be scheduled to handle detailed explanations.

Q.      Does the equalization raise more taxes?

       A.  No, the assessment raises only the tax dollars voted by the town residents in its annual Town Meeting budget. The new higher total municipal valuation will result in a lower tax rate.

Q.       When can I discuss my assessment?

       A.  Simple questions concerning your assessment may be handled in person or by telephone. Detailed explanations will be best handled by scheduling an informal hearing. The informal hearings will be carried out by experienced assessing office representatives.

Q.      I don't think my property is worth this new valuation. What should I do?

       A.  You should call the Assessing Office to schedule an appointment for an informal hearing. A representative of the Assessing Office will explain the new valuation and how it was calculated. You will also be shown assessments and/or sales prices of similar properties.

Q.      My value went up. What happens to the "extra tax money?"

       A.  There is no extra money. Your increased taxes may be offset by another property's decreased tax burden. An increase in taxes probably indicates that you have been paying less than your fair share. Likewise, other taxpayers had been paying more than their fair share.

Q.      Why did my taxes go up and other people's taxes went down?

       A.  Although almost all properties have increased in value, some properties have increased at a higher rate than others. Those properties that have increased in value at an above average rate will probably see a tax increase. Properties in that category include shorefront properties and large land parcels.

Q.      I don't care if other properties sold for high prices; I'm not selling. Why should my value go up?

       A.  The Legislature, in 1977, enacted a law which requires all property be assessed in accordance with just value (market value). Additionally, the Maine Supreme Court declared, in a 1945 decision, that taxes must be assessed equally on any kind or class of property.

Q.      I recognize that the valuation is reasonable, but I simply cannot afford the tax increase. What can I do?

       A.  The State of Maine offers property tax rebates to taxpayers who have limited incomes. Applications are available from the Harpswell Town Office.

            State current use programs are available for those who comply with tree growth, farmland and open space requirements. Applications are available in the Assessing Office.

            Veterans, or widows of veterans, who meet certain requirements may be eligible for a partial exemption. Applications are available in the Assessing Office.

Q.      My property value went down, or stayed the same; do I get a refund for taxes paid?

       A.  No. The most important reason for an equalization program is to ensure that every value is consistent with the market information as of April 1. In most equalizations two-thirds of the property owners will see an average increase in value or a less than average increase in value. A few will even see a decrease in value.