Colorado Hard Money recently published a helpful guide explaining how property taxes are assessed in Colorado and how to appeal them. With values rising in many counties, this may be one of the best opportunities in over a decade to file a successful appeal.
The 2025 valuations are based on sales from January 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Many counties applied general appreciation rates that may not reflect actual trends in your neighborhood. If your valuation seemed surprisingly high, you are not alone.
Appealing your tax value is a straightforward process and could lead to meaningful savings. Colorado Hard Money’s guide breaks down key questions like when and how values are determined, why they are still increasing, and what you can do about it. It also includes six tips to help you submit a strong appeal.
Why Assessments Are Still Rising
Although the market has cooled, assessors are still relying on past sales data. Valuations released this spring reflect sales through June 30, 2024. Any slowdown since then isn’t considered. In many cases, simplified county-wide appreciation formulas are being used that don’t reflect neighborhood-specific trends.
What You Can Do About It
An appeal gives you the chance to correct inaccuracies, challenge flawed comparables, or submit more relevant data. It’s not just for investors or attorneys—with a few hours of effort, homeowners can file their own appeal and potentially lower their property tax bill.
6 Tips to Win Your Property Tax Appeal
- Use the Correct Sales Data Window
Comparable sales must fall within the January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024window. Sales outside this range will not be considered.
- Pull Sales That Truly Compare
Choose comps that are similar in size, condition, location, and features. Avoid relying solely on the assessor’s comps, as they are often inaccurate.
- Use MLS Photos and Notes
If you have access to MLS, include listing photos and remarks for each comp. Point out differences that make your property less valuable than those used in the assessment.
- Take Your Own Photos
Current photos of your property can help show its true condition. If it needs repairs or updates, document them to support your case for a lower valuation.
- Prepare a Short, Clear Summary
Submit a concise explanation outlining why your valuation is too high, backed by your sales data and photos. Keep it factual and professional.
- File on Time
The deadline to appeal is June 8, 2025. Late appeals will not be accepted. Most counties allow you to file online, by mail, or in person. Check your county assessor’s website for details.
If you believe your assessment is too high, now is the time to act.
Read the full guide and step-by-step appeal tips at Colorado Hard Money.
