Manassas city mails real estate assessment notices to 12,482 taxpayers

Manassas city’s Commissioner of the Revenue’s Real Estate Division mailed 12,482 real estate assessment notices to city taxpayers on Friday, March 7, 2014.  The notices were sent to all property owners of taxable parcels in the city, according to a news release from Patty Prince, public affairs specialist.

Questions or concerns about assessments should be directed to the Real Estate Division at 703-257-8254 for north side and 703-257-8250 for south side residential properties and 703-257-8217 for business properties; or visit the Commissioner’s homepage at: http://www.manassascity.org/COR  .

Sales of foreclosed properties, pre-foreclosed properties and auctions are not used to determine fair market values, the news release stated.

Property owners are encouraged to review assessment notices upon receipt. Administrative appeals can be filed with the Real Estate Division if owners believe their assessment is not equitable in comparison with similar properties or if they believe their assessment is not fair market value as of Jan. 1, 2014.

Appeals may be made in writing to the Real EstateDivision by April 5, 2014.

Real Estate appeals can also be filed with the Board of Equalization (BOE). 

Under State law, the BOE is separate from the Commissioner’s Real Estate Division and consists of three city residents appointed by the Circuit Court.  The BOE conducts formal hearings and takes sworn testimony.  By law, all appeals to the BOE must be filed and postmarked by MAY 1, 2014. 

BOE appeal forms are also available http://www.manassascity.org/COR or by, calling the BOE office at 703-257-8229.