Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB329

Filed

11/12/24

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a requirement that an appraisal review board rely on an appraisal of residential real property prepared by an appraiser and submitted to the board by the property owner to determine a protest regarding the value of the property.

Impact

The implementation of HB 329 is expected to have a considerable impact on how property valuations are determined in Texas. By requiring the appraisal review board to give weight to appraisals submitted by the property owner, the bill could lead to a more equitable process for homeowners contesting their property taxes. This change may also incentivize appraisers to provide more accurate and careful assessments, knowing they could influence the outcome of a property value dispute. Furthermore, this bill's provisions apply only to protests filed on or after its effective date, September 1, 2025, thus highlighting the importance of timely action for property owners seeking to benefit from this new requirement.

Summary

House Bill 329 aims to amend the Texas Tax Code, specifically Section 41.43, to strengthen the rights of property owners regarding appraisals of residential real property. The bill mandates that an appraisal review board must rely on an appraisal prepared by a certified appraiser submitted by the property owner in determining the outcome of a protest concerning the value of their property. This legislative change is significant as it establishes a more favorable position for property owners in disputes over property valuations, which can affect property tax assessments and financial obligations.

Contention

While the bill seeks to bolster homeowner rights, the discussion surrounding HB 329 may include points of contention regarding its potential implications for local appraisal districts. Opponents might argue that this legislation could undermine the established processes that appraisal boards currently utilize, leading to inconsistencies or challenges in maintaining uniform property valuations across different jurisdictions. Additionally, concerns regarding the qualifications and motivations of certified appraisers could arise, particularly if there are worries about how appraisal reports are influenced by property owners' interests. Overall, the discussions could underscore the balance between empowering homeowners and ensuring fair and objective assessment practices within the property tax system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB154

TX HB1766

Relating to a requirement that an appraisal district rely on an appraisal of real property prepared by an appraiser and submitted to the district by the property owner when determining the value of the property.

TX HB1284

Relating to the duty of an appraisal review board to determine a motion or protest filed by a property owner and the right of the owner to appeal the board's determination.

TX HB3093

Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.

TX SB1051

TX HB3094

TX SB1052

TX HB2644

Requiring a county appraiser to adjust the value of personal property mobile homes, residential and commercial property upon final determination or obtain a fee simple appraisal if the appraised value exceeds 5% increase over five years.

TX HB4613

Relating to the award of attorney's fees to an appraisal district, appraisal review board, or chief appraiser that prevails in an appeal on the ground that a property has been appraised for ad valorem tax purposes unequally.

TX HB360

Relating to the authority of an appraisal review board to direct changes in the appraisal roll and related appraisal records if a residence homestead is sold for less than the appraised value.