“Welcome.” “I’m tired.” “I am thoughtful.” “I have had much laughter.” “Imagination and creativity lived here.”
Over my 40-year real estate career, I have listed and shown thousands of properties. Sometimes, the best-staged homes did not sell quickly, and some that seemed dated or a bit tattered sold with remarkable speed. Over time, a pattern emerged.
Not all houses speak.
Many homes are built for expediency. They are designed around what is current, popular, and expected. They can be attractive and well-presented. However, presentation alone does not create connection.
A house that speaks reveals itself through proportion, light, flow, and the way life has unfolded within it.
Buyers recognize this, often without being able to explain it.
They linger. They slow down. They begin to see themselves there.
This is not staging. It is recognition.
It also explains why a fully updated home can feel less compelling than one with age, character, and a clear point of view. A house with underlying coherence offers spaces that make sense, and its details align. It resonates.
For sellers, this matters.
The goal is neither to erase a home’s identity in pursuit of broad appeal nor is it to preserve everything unchanged. The work is to understand what gives the house its presence and clearly bring that forward.
Some homes require refinement. Some require restraint. Some require translation.
Knowing the difference is where experience matters.
Often it is not size, but proportion.
Not excess, but balance. Materials and spaces that hold their purpose and endure.
Not new, and not trendy.
It is the thoughtful evolution that respects the architecture and supports how we live today.
Buyers do not simply evaluate features as benefits. They listen.
When a home speaks clearly, the right buyer hears it immediately.
Krasi Henkel is Principal Broker and Founder of Properties on the Potomac. Text to connect with her for your home purchase or to offer your property for sale. All agents are not the same and there is no substitute for expertise. 703-624-8333
Many people design their homes with a future buyer in mind. They choose neutrals whether or not they like them. Yes, it is safe. It might not offend anyone. They live cautiously, as if tenants in their own homes.
As a first-time homebuyer, I made different decisions. I chose to decorate our home. I did not ‘stage’ it. I did not neutralize it. I decorated it to our taste and expectations. It was not expensive, simply lovely.
I was warned repeatedly. “Nobody will buy this when you want to sell.” ‘They’ were wrong. Not only did my homes sell, they sold quickly and for top values. Even when two of my two-story foyer walls were enameled in hunter green.
Why? Because a home that has been lived in fully carries something no neutral palette can replicate. It has presence. It has coherence. It has conviction. Buyers do not respond to emptiness. They respond to authenticity.
Endless expanses of neutrals might offend no one, but they inspire no one either. They exist in a kind of suspended neutrality, waiting for permission to become something else.
A decorated home, one that has been lived in and cared for, offers evidence of permanence. It shows that the structure was worthy of investment, it was worthy not only financially, but emotionally. It shows that someone trusted the home enough to inhabit it fully. That trust has value.
A home must feel permanent and anchored. It should not feel disposable. It should neither be assembled from materials designed for replacement, nor lived in cautiously for the sake of resale. It should be inhabited fully, honestly, and without apology.
Raising children on ‘nice’ furniture and flooring helps them know that they are trusted and valued. Pets can be trained to respect property. Do not relinquish your life and time to “children and pets” at the expense of quality and permanence. Even if an item sustains damage, that damage carries a history of time and place. It will bring wistful memories when there is peace and order in the house.
I encourage my clients to buy the nice furniture while their children are young. Let them inhabit a home, not just a ‘playhouse.’ Help them understand value, boundaries. Help them learn care and consideration. That is a priceless education.
Choose what you love and it will endure.
Live where you are.
When the time comes, the market will recognize the difference.
Rentals. Their management and tenancy are a significant part of real estate ownership. At Properties on the Potomac, we follow legislative updates in all three of our jurisdictions: Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. Each has its own landlord-tenant laws that must be carefully observed.
As professionals, we help property owners secure good tenants who care for their homes. We do this across all three jurisdictions. We also assist past clients who are transitioning into rentals for lifestyle changes or interim situations.
Unlike residential sales, rentals are governed largely by statute. Landlord-tenant laws affect day-to-day operations, which can significantly impact a landlord’s finances.
Affordable housing is a major topic today. Alongside that discussion, tenant rights and landlord obligations are receiving increased attention. Maryland has already enacted stricter rules involving security and pet deposits. Virginia is considering several similar measures.
Security Deposit rules by jurisdiction
(their refund rules will be addressed in a future blog):
Washington, D.C. All security deposits must be held in FDIC-insured escrow accounts and must accrue interest.
Maryland Security deposits are limited to one month’s rent. Pet deposits are not allowed, though landlords may negotiate non-refundable rent increases related to pets. All deposits must be held in FDIC-insured escrow accounts.
Virginia There is currently no cap on security deposits, and no escrow or interest requirement. However, this may change with pending legislation.
Delinquent Rents and Eviction Initiation
Washington, D.C. Landlords must provide 30 days written notice of nonpayment. Tenants may cure during that period.
Maryland Tenants generally have 10 days to pay or vacate. The eviction process itself is often lengthy.
Virginia Currently requires a 5-day pay-or-quit notice. Proposed legislation would extend this to 14 days.
It is critical that landlords follow the rules of their jurisdiction. Failure to comply can result in loss of deposits, unnecessary repair responsibilities, fines, and delayed legal action.
For many landlords, working with a professional property manager helps reduce risk and keeps operations compliant.
Virginia Legislative Updates – 2026 Session
When I attended the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors Legislative Day in Richmond on January 29, I learned about several landlord-tenant bills currently under consideration in the Virginia General Assembly. Many could meaningfully affect landlords.
Eviction and Payment Reforms
• HB 15 (Price) — Extends the grace period for late rent payments from 5 days to 14 days before eviction proceedings may begin. • HB 95 (Bennett-Parker) — Requires landlords to offer payment plans of up to six months to tenants behind on rent before terminating a lease. • HB 281 (Callsen) / SB 373 (Boysko) — Removes the requirement for tenants to pay disputed rent into court before asserting legal defenses. • HB 837 (McClure) / SB 273 (Locke) — Updates the Eviction Diversion Program’s eligibility and notification process.
Fees and Maintenance
• SB 313 (Ebbin) / HB 1005 (Price) — Prohibits landlords from charging for routine maintenance unless caused by a tenant’s lease violation. • HB 1409 (Schmidt) — Bans certain charges for common-area utilities, delivery fees, and services beyond actual costs. • SB 349 (Locke) — Limits pre-tenancy fees and requires full written disclosure prior to showings.
Tenant Protections
• HB 14 (Price) — Allows local governments to pursue legal action against landlords who fail to correct hazardous conditions. • HB 1408 (Schmidt) — Expands protections for victims of family abuse. • HB 1252 (McClure) — Requires disclosure of algorithmic rent-pricing tools and allows tenants to request human review. • HB 329 (McClure) — Expands definitions of retaliatory conduct and tenant remedies.
Local Authority and Market Regulation
• HB 278 (Clark) — Allows local governments to adopt anti-rent gouging policies. • SB 547 (Sturtevant) — Limits ownership of single-family homes by certain entities and requires public marketing periods.
As a current or prospective landlord, review these proposals and determine how they might affect your properties and investments. You have the right to address concerns or express support with your elected representative.
At Properties on the Potomac, we track legislative changes closely to help our clients stay informed and prepared.
If you own rental property and have questions, we are available to help. Text Broker, Krasi Henkel to discuss your questions.
The December data from BrightMLS offers a reassuring close to the year across most of the Washington Metro region. Activity remains steady, prices appear to be resilient, and while days on market have stretched modestly, conditions continue to favor well-prepared buyers and sellers.
Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland performed particularly well. Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church City, Loudoun, Montgomery, and Frederick Counties all showed solid to improving sales activity with generally stable or rising median prices. The increase in days on market across these areas reflects normalization rather than weakness. Buyers are deliberate, inspections matter, and pricing discipline is rewarded.
While median prices in D.C. rose year-over-year, closed sales declined and days on market remained elevated. This divergence is largely driven by the condominium sector, where rising condo fees, insurance costs, and buyer sensitivity to monthly carrying expenses continue to suppress demand. Well-located single-family homes and townhomes remain competitive.
This is not a distressed market at all. It is a discerning one and the panic to buy ‘something’ seems to have passed.
Homes that are priced correctly, are well-presented, and are aligned with buyer expectations are selling well. Those that are not, are waiting. Now, strategy, preparation, and thoughtful positioning matter more than ever.
Real estate decisions should always be made locally, not generically. The data reinforces what we, at Properties on the Potomac, Inc. see daily. Sales are driven by activity and not by headlines.
Do you have a low mortgage that you hate to give up? But you want a different living environment? Krasi Henkel has a plan for you. One that builds equity, wealth, and curates your lifestyle. Text Krasi – 703-624-8333
It is the Holiday Season again. Social calendars and children’s activities are at their peak. A common belief is that December is “quiet” in real estate. In reality, things are abuzz preparing for the New Year. Realtors are planning and wrapping up their year. Many homeowners are thinking, while perhaps, not taking immediate action.
When the calendar slows, distractions abound. Plans percolate. There might be fewer sales. There is also less competition (good for buyers). Are you evaluating how your space functions? Conversations often shift from “Should we?” to “What do we want next?” What do you really want?
The Conversations That Matter Most
Planning conversations revolve around timing, readiness, and sequencing. Much depends on selling or holding the current property. Should you consider a more immediate or deferred approach?
What matters to you most? Do you need more space, a different location, more land? What does your next chapter look like?
Here is why early planning matters. Several years ago, a client shared some plans for the following year. We discussed options and made a plan. I received a distress call shortly before their listing was going on the market. A neighbor was also going on the market at the same time. “What should we do?” I assured them that we are ready to put the house on the market immediately. There were no properties for sale in the entire community. So, “Let’s get you several offers, the best buyer, and the best offer, and those who miss your house can have the next one.” This is exactly what happened. Soon after their sale, three more houses came on the market. There were no multiple offers. Our price remained top for the neighborhood for quite some time.
Financial Considerations
The financial and strategic conversations are inescapable – the “yes…but.” Yet, where there is a will there is a way. You most likely have equity in your current property which will benefit your future purchase. As a seller, tax advantages could help you act sooner than later. Perhaps now is a good time to have a preliminary conversation with your trusted real estate advisor.
Your three percent loan is marvelous, but you can still up or downsize despite interest rate fluctuations. I have structured many happy outcomes and helped my clients build wealth.
Waiting until January or worse, “spring” limits your options. January brings speed, competition, and many external pressures. Making reactive decisions is rarely optimal. Early conversations allow for better evaluation, preparation, and ultimately, execution.
As in any important financial consideration, thoughtful outcomes begin with thoughtful conversations. If you are considering a potential change, contact me now. I will help you sort the pieces and give you meaningful information with which to make good decisions. After all, the best real estate decisions are rarely rushed. They are considered.
This is the season when we spend more time indoors and our doors and windows remain closed for longer periods.
I am deathly allergic and toxic to mold. A three second exposure can make me ill for weeks and even months. I often laugh with my buyer clients that I am the official “mold meter” when we look at houses. There have been times that I detected mold even before opening the front door. I share my experience with my clients, and we leave as quickly as possible. Sick houses can be cleaned. My clients need not be the ones to do that.
Not everyone smells or reacts to mold. I believe that educating my clients is paramount. No sale is worth illness and maladies. I would rather walk away than knowingly let my clients buy into malaise, illness, and even life-threatening accidents. A mold reaction caused me to fall from my horse, breaking my ankle. My life changed. I have not been the same ever since.
While everyone has varying levels of reaction, if any, to mold in a property, it is important to understand how mold develops and where it can grow. It is not always the old basement, although it quite possibly can be. With weather changes and moisture changes, below is a list (not comprehensive but suggestive) where mold can grow:
Window casings and drywall around them
Doors – under sill plates and around the frames on the drywall
Under sink base cabinets
Under dishwashers
Under washing machines
Under HVAC condensate lines
Inside HVAC air handlers
Behind and under refrigerators (even those without water sources)
Bathrooms
Basements – under floors, wall bases, even ceilings
Your car!!
What can you do to prevent mold from taking root in your home or car?
Inspect window caulking regularly – recaulk as needed
Check door sill plates – especially at decks and patios
Look under sinks – look for evidence of moisture – attack and remediate
Look under your dishwasher for evidence of water and mold signs
Look under and behind washing machines
Have your HVAC serviced and inspected semi-annually – ask your tech to look for evidence of leakage and mold
Pull your refrigerator out – inspect the floor
Run the exhaust fan in your bathrooms while showering to prevent condensation build-up
Confirm that bathroom exhaust fans are operating properly
Change the air filter in your car
Keep all HVAC filters clean
Here are a few unsettling facts that I recently discovered:
Drywall in its manufacturing process has imbedded mold spores
Mold loves drywall. That is why after a water incursion event, mold grows on drywall very quickly.
New home construction can “build-in” mold during the construction process by allowing materials to get wet.
Your car’s trunk gasket can be allowing water incursion and harboring mold
Your car’s air filter can get damaged by mice – their deposits can sprout mold
Your car’s AC can leak into your dash – mold can sprout
These lists are just a few of the mold issues that can develop over time or quickly.
Mold has been associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, headaches, upper respiratory ailments, even ‘colds’ could be reactions to mold. Do not be lulled into security by a ‘new house.’
Last year, I walked through our basement bedroom for a split second. That was long enough for me to get sick. It lasted through January. Where was the mold? Our basement bath exhaust fan had stopped exhausting but sounded to be running just fine. My husband likes the shower there. The moisture from the shower traveled to the far corner of the room, settled on the cold tile floor under a night table, and sprouted a quarter-sized spot of mold.
As a precaution – I had the exterior walls’ drywall removed – luckily – all was dry including studs and base framing. The tile was dry with no evidence of water. I called a waterproofing company – they tried to sell me a $50,000 remediation system.
I decided to call on the home inspector who inspects my clients’ home purchases. He came armed with a moisture meter. He found none. Then, he suggested laying down and sealing a vapor barrier plastic sheet like that of a crawl space. He told us to leave it down for 7-10 days. If at the end of the period, there was moisture under the barrier – there is a water problem. If none, then it was a condensation problem. Luckily, it was the latter.
Our brilliant contractor figured out that the exhaust fan was not extracting the condensation. In with a new fan and lots of cleaning – all is well.
However, this episode required that I discard the entire contents of the room. I had my brand new furnace thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Mold spores are airborne and had certainly settled on all fabrics and furnishings. All because an exhaust fan had malfunctioned. On that note – ask questions about the history of any resale furnishings that you are considering buying. Have you ever smelled mustiness in antique drawers . . . ?
Mold is toxic and for those who are sensitive, each episode increases that sensitivity and the reactions. While I am not a mold expert, here is a link to mold and its remediation on YouTube. The mold conversation begins around the 3 minute mark. It is a little long but could save you years of misery.
If you have questions or need resources, contact Krasi Henkel – TEXT – 703-624-8333. If you are planning to buy your next home, Text Krasi.
Banner image: Leadership and mentorship discussion, Diana Bell-McKoy
As a real estate professional constantly seeking to expand my horizons and connections, I recently had the privilege of attending the French-American Chamber of Commerce Business Summit on May 1st at the Embassy of France. This gathering proved to be far more than a typical networking event. It was a vibrant celebration of cross-cultural collaboration and innovation right here, in the DC Metro area.
A Feast for Mind and Palate The Embassy of France provided an elegant backdrop for this meeting of minds, and true to French tradition, the culinary offerings were nothing short of spectacular. From the carefully curated breakfast pastries to the sumptuous lunch spread, the attention to detail reflected the French commitment to excellence that permeated the entire summit. And of course, French Champagne.
While the food nourished the body, it was the intellectual exchange that fed the soul. Speakers from diverse sectors shared cutting-edge technological developments, innovative marketing approaches, mentorship programs, and even artistic perspectives that bridge our two cultures. The breadth of knowledge on display was both impressive and humbling.
Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Among the most inspiring aspects of the summit was meeting several French interns currently working at the Embassy. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and global perspective were remarkable. These young professionals embodied the future of international relations. They were fluent not just in multiple languages but in the nuanced art of cross-cultural communication.
Their presence reminded me that in real estate, we’re not just selling properties; we’re facilitating lives in new communities. Whether helping expatriates find their American home or assisting locals looking to embrace new cultural experiences, understanding diverse perspectives enriches our ability to serve clients meaningfully.
Tech discussions with Alain Briancon, PhD – Senior Technology Executive, Arch System
Technology and Humanity: Finding the Balance A recurring theme throughout the presentations was the role of technology in modern business. Speakers showcased impressive advances in various fields—from golf lawn mowing robots to marketing strategies and Woman-on-Woman mentorship, there were limitless applications for real estate.
The most profound takeaway came not from discussions of technology but from experiencing its limitations. Despite all our digital connections—emails, texts, social platforms, and virtual meetings that fill our days, nothing replaces the energy of face-to-face conversation. As attendees exchanged ideas over coffee or shared business cards after presentations, it became abundantly clear: human connection remains the foundation of meaningful business relationships.
Bringing It Home to Properties on the Potomac At Properties on the Potomac, we value the human element of real estate. The insights gained from this summit reinforce our commitment to combining technological efficiency with personal connection. In our communities, where history and innovation flow together like the waters of the Potomac, this balanced approach resonates deeply.
The French-American Chamber of Commerce exemplifies how different perspectives can create something greater than the sum of their parts. Similarly, in real estate, bringing together diverse clients, properties, and communities creates value that transcends transaction.
Leadership discussion: Laurant Tari
As I reflect on the day’s experiences, I’m reminded that bridges, whether between cultures, businesses, or people seeking new homes, are not built with technology alone. They require understanding, patience, and genuine human interest. In our increasingly digital world, these qualities may well be the most valuable currency of all.
The summit may have ended, but its impact continues. As a Certified International Property Specialist, I look forward to incorporating these cross-cultural insights into our work at Properties on the Potomac, Inc., where each client’s story adds another chapter to our community’s rich narrative.
In keeping with the international theme of the day, I had the pleasure of dining with a client who is Bulgarian. After a day of hearing French and partially conversing in it, I switched to Bulgarian and ended the day on a note of optimistic plans for my client. In spite of being up since 5 AM, I was still energized when I walked through my door after 10 PM.
Navigating Uncertainty: Real Estate at a Crossroads Never has the real estate landscape been so contradictory – simultaneously showing signs of strength and vulnerability. Are we facing a boom, a bubble, or an impending bust?
Properties on the Potomac’sKrasi Henkel has accurately predicted the last three real estate cycles from downturns to upswings. Her proven foresight is more valuable than ever in today’s complex market.
While technology floods us with information at unprecedented speeds, we mustn’t forget the human element of real estate – these are decisions about your most significant asset and potentially your largest liability.
Are We Heading for Another 2008? The question on everyone’s mind: Are we reliving 2007, with 2026 poised to mirror the 2008 collapse? Perhaps – but today’s landscape features critical differences:
Severe Housing Shortage: Virginia alone faces a deficit of 300,000-500,000 units
Historic Low Affordability: Homeownership remains out of reach for many
Improved Interest Rates: Creating new opportunities for strategic buyers
Record-High Prices: Pushing market elasticity to its limits
Building Market Pressure: Indicators point toward an inevitable correction
Make Decisions with Expertise, Not Algorithms Should you buy now? Is it time to sell? These questions demand more than automated valuation models and trending hashtags.
With firsthand experience navigating multiple real estate cycles, Krasi has developed a proprietary system to help Properties on the Potomac clients evaluate their options and craft intelligent, personalized strategies.
The bottom line: Don’t trust algorithms alone with your financial future. At Properties on the Potomac, Inc., our agents bring sophisticated understanding of real estate economics, finance, and equity evaluation to every client relationship.
Our singular mission is protecting our clients’ best interests during these uncertain times. For 2025, we have limited availability to welcome new clients. Don’t miss your window to explore your options with true market experts.
Krasi Henkel Transforms Lives Through Exceptional Real Estate Experiences and Services
In the world of real estate, true excellence goes far beyond transactions—it’s about creating transformative living experiences. “My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and profound personal commitment,” says Krasi.
A Legacy of Determination
Krasi describes her early experience, “My real estate story began not in boardrooms or luxury open houses, but in a moment of childhood resilience. At just nine years old, I stood alongside my immigrant parents, challenging the status quo when faced with discriminatory housing practices. When we were told, ‘We don’t sell to people like you,’ I responded by asking what we needed to become to achieve our dreams.”
“The day we moved into our new home was more than a real estate transaction—it was a pivotal moment of hope, opportunity, and the American dream realized. Those early experiences taught me that a home is far more than brick and mortar; it’s a sanctuary where families grow, dreams take root, and futures are shaped,” reflects Krasi.
Leadership and Continuous Growth
As a testament to her industry standing, Krasi currently chairs the NVAR (Northern Virginia Association of Realtors) Small Broker Forum 2025. She is also one of just 25 members selected for the prestigious 2025 NVAR Leadership Institute. Her commitment to professional excellence includes earning a Certificate in Business Excellence from the College of William and Mary and a Master Certificate of Negotiation from Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation.
When not transforming the real estate experiences of her clients, Krasi enjoys life on her horse farm with husband Jon Henkel, who serves as Associate Broker at Properties on the Potomac, Inc. Together they share their home with four horses, four cats, and their beloved Bernedoodle, Sophie. Krasi’s passions include dressage riding, nature walks in her favorite parks, the arts, and writing insightful blogs about real estate, arts, and lifestyle.
Expertise Meets Empathy
With over three decades of professional real estate experience, Krasi brings a unique blend of market expertise and deep personal understanding to every client relationship.
“I don’t just help clients buy or sell properties; I help them curate lifestyle environments that reflect their deepest aspirations,” Krasi explains. “Whether seeking an urban retreat, a suburban community experience, an equestrian estate, or a strategic property investment, I guide clients to clearly identify their true desires before designing customized solutions.”
Having served thousands of clients with billions in real estate transactions, Krasi maintains an exceptional market intuition. She provides timely counsel on when to act decisively, when to pivot strategies, and when patience is the wisest approach. Her track record speaks for itself—she accurately predicted each market fluctuation since 1988 and their subsequent recoveries.
Curious about her current market insights? Contact Krasi for your personalized market report.
If you recently received your property tax assessment and think it’s too high, you may have the option to appeal. Property tax assessments are used to determine how much you owe in taxes each year, and an inaccurate valuation could mean paying more than your fair share.
In the Washington, D.C., metro area, property owners in the District, Maryland, and Virginia each have different processes for appealing assessments. This guide will walk you through the basics of how assessments work, when you should consider an appeal, and the steps to challenge an incorrect valuation in D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland suburbs.
Understanding Your Property Tax Assessment Local governments assess property values based on market trends, recent sales of similar properties, and any improvements made to your home. This assessed value determines your annual property tax bill. However, assessments aren’t always accurate, and mistakes can happen, such as:
Failing to account for declining market conditions
If you believe your assessment is too high, an appeal may help lower your property taxes.
A professional appraisal can sometimes help an appeal.
General Steps to Appeal a Property Tax Assessment
Review Your Assessment Notice – Check for any discrepancies in your property details.
Research Comparable Properties – Find recent sales of similar homes in your area to support your case. Properties on the Potomac can assist with this.
Check for Errors – Ensure there are no mistakes in the assessment records.
File an Appeal by the Deadline – Each jurisdiction has specific deadlines and processes for appeals.
Present Evidence – Be prepared to provide documentation proving your property is over-assessed.
Now, let’s look at how the appeal process works in D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland suburbs.
Appealing Your Property Tax Assessment By Location: Click on the location to get additional details on how and where to file an appeal.
Washington, DC
Steps to Appeal:
Check Your Assessment – The Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) mails annual assessments in late February or early March.
File a First-Level Appeal – You must submit your appeal to OTR by April 1 of the same year. The appeal can be filed online, by mail, or in person.
Attend a Hearing (If Necessary) – If your initial appeal is denied, you can request a second-level review with the Real Property Tax Appeals Commission (RPTAC).
Take Your Case to Court – If you’re still unsatisfied with the decision, you can file a case with the D.C. Superior Court.
Mail: Office of Tax and Revenue, 1101 4th Street, SW, Suite 550W, Washington, D.C. 20024
Northern Virginia: Arlington County, Fairfax County, Alexandria, Loudoun County, Prince William County
Steps to Appeal:
Review Your Notice – Assessment notices are typically sent in late February.
Request an Informal Review – Contact your local tax assessor’s office to discuss potential errors. This step is optional but may lead to a quick resolution.
File a Formal Appeal – Submit an appeal to the Board of Equalization (BOE) by varied deadlines (usually April-May, depending on the county).
Prepare for a Hearing – Provide sales data, appraisals, and other supporting evidence.
Maryland: Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Frederick County
Steps to Appeal:
Review Your Assessment Notice – Maryland properties are reassessed every three years. Notices are sent out in late December for properties up for reassessment the following year.
Request a Reassessment (If Necessary) – If you believe your assessment is too high, you can file an appeal within 45 days of receiving your notice.
File an Appeal with the Supervisor of Assessments – If an informal review doesn’t resolve the issue, submit a formal appeal to the Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board (PTAAB).
Take Your Case to the Maryland Tax Court – If necessary, you can escalate your appeal beyond the PTAAB.
Meet Deadlines – Each jurisdiction has strict filing deadlines, so don’t miss your opportunity to appeal.
Use Comparable Sales Data – Provide recent sales of similar properties in your neighborhood to prove overvaluation.
Highlight Property Deficiencies – Document any structural issues, outdated systems, or factors that negatively affect your home’s value.
Get a Professional Appraisal – Hiring an independent appraiser can strengthen your case.
Final Thoughts A successful property tax appeal can save you money, but it requires research, preparation, and sometimes persistence. If you believe your home is over-assessed, following the steps outlined above for your specific jurisdiction can help you navigate the process.
If you’re looking for more guidance on property values or considering buying or selling in the D.C. metro area, our experienced team is here to help. Contact Tiffany Henkel at 703-989-7452 today!
