Frequently Asked Questions

Your assessed value is the County Assessor’s estimate of the market value of your property as of January 1st of the assessment year. 

This value is used to calculate your share of local property taxes for the following year.

• Homeowners Guide to mass appraisal (pdf)

Each year, our office reviews real estate market activity, permits, and physical changes to properties. Your assessed value may change because:

• Real estate prices in your area went up or down
• New construction or remodeling was completed
• Land improvements like wells, driveways, or septic were added
• Corrections were made to property data (like square footage or condition)

We use verified sales of similar properties in your neighborhood to estimate fair market value. These are called “arms-length sales”, meaning both buyer and seller were willing, informed, and not under pressure.

• Sales Search

You can help by returning the sales verification form we mail after a property is sold! 

You can ALSO scan the QR code below or click the link: sales validation questionnaire to complete the survey. Your input will assist us in making a fair and informed assessment.

No. The Assessor determines value—not the tax rate. Your property taxes are set by:

• Voter-approved levies and bonds
• Local taxing districts (schools, fire, hospital, etc.)
• State law limitations on total levy rates

Your taxes may go up or down depending on:

• Your property’s value relative to others
• Changes in levy rates or new voter-approved measures

Washington State Department of Revenue: Understanding property tax

You have the right to appeal your value, not your taxes.

First, contact our office. We’re happy to review your property record and explain your valuation.

If you still disagree, you can file a formal appeal with the Island County Board of Equalization. Appeals must be filed by July 1 or within 30 days of your value notice, whichever is later

• More information from the Assessor's Office on appealing an assessed valuation
• The only way to appeal an assessor’s valuation of your property is by timely filing a complete appeal petition with the Island County Board of Equalization.