Property taxes are a significant consideration for homeowners and real estate investors in Texas.Understanding how property taxes are assessed and the potential for annual increases is crucial for budgeting and planning purposes.We will explore the factors that influence property tax increases in Texas and provide insights into how much property taxes can rise per year.

Property Tax Basics in Texas

In Texas,property taxes are the primary source of funding for local governments,including school districts,counties,and municipalities.Property taxes are based on the appraised value of the property,which is determined by local appraisal districts.The tax rate is set by each taxing jurisdiction and is applied to the appraised value to calculate the annual property tax liability.

Factors Influencing Property Tax Increases

Several factors can contribute to property tax increases in Texas:

a.Appraisal Value:The appraised value of your property is a significant factor in determining property taxes.Appraisal districts reassess property values periodically,typically every one to three years.If the appraised value of your property increases,it can lead to higher property taxes.

b.Tax Rate Changes:Taxing jurisdictions,such as school districts and local governments,have the authority to set tax rates.If tax rates increase,it will result in higher property tax bills,even if the appraised value of the property remains the same.

c.Voter-Approved Bond Measures:Bond measures for infrastructure projects or school improvements can also impact property taxes.If voters approve bonds,property taxes may increase to fund the debt service associated with those bonds.

d.Exemptions and Deductions:Texas offers various exemptions and deductions that can lower property tax liabilities.However,changes in exemptions or eligibility criteria can affect the final property tax bill.

Property Tax Limitations in Texas

Texas has implemented certain property tax limitations to provide some protection against dramatic tax increases.These limitations include:

a.Homestead Exemption:Texas offers a homestead exemption for primary residences.This exemption reduces the appraised value of a property,resulting in lower property taxes.However,the homestead exemption applies only to your primary residence,not investment properties.

b.Property Tax Caps:The Texas Constitution imposes a 10%annual cap on the appraised value of a property for residential homesteads.This cap limits the year-over-year increase in the appraised value and,subsequently,the property tax bill.

c.Proposition 2.5%Limit:In 2019,Texas implemented additional property tax reforms that require voter approval for local governments to increase property tax revenues by more than 3.5%for cities,counties,and special districts,and 2.5%for school districts.

Average Property Tax Increases in Texas

Property tax increases in Texas can vary depending on location,local tax rates,and market conditions.According to data from the Texas Comptroller's Office,the average effective property tax rate in Texas is around 1.83%.However,it's important to note that individual properties may experience higher or lower increases based on their specific circumstances.

Predicting Future Property Tax Increases

Forecasting exact property tax increases for a specific property in Texas can be challenging.Appraisal districts review property values periodically,and tax rates can fluctuate based on the needs of the local taxing jurisdictions.Additionally,factors such as changes in economic conditions,voter-approved bond measures,and legislative actions can affect property tax rates.