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Property Taxes in the San Gabriel Valley: A Homeowner’s Guide
- tessmarquezhomes
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
What Are Property Taxes?
Property taxes are local taxes charged on real estate. They’re usually based on the assessed value of your property (land plus home) and the local property tax rate set by your city, county, or school district.
In the San Gabriel Valley, property taxes fund schools, public safety, roads, and city services that directly impact your neighborhood.
How Are Property Taxes Calculated?
The formula is simple:
Assessed Value × Local Tax Rate = Property Tax Bill
For example, if your Covina home is assessed at $500,000 and your local property tax rate is 1.2%, your yearly property tax would be $6,000.
💡 Tip: Los Angeles County reassesses homes at sale or when major improvements are made, which means your tax bill may increase if you remodel or sell.
Why Do Property Taxes Go Up?
Homeowners across West Covina, Glendora, San Dimas, Diamond Bar, and La Puente often ask: “Why are my property taxes rising?”
Here are the main reasons:
Rising Home Values – When home prices in the San Gabriel Valley increase, tax bills follow.
Voter-Approved Measures – Bonds for schools, libraries, or parks may raise rates.
Reassessments – California’s Prop 13 limits increases, but reassessments at sale or transfer can cause a jump.
Can You Lower Your Property Taxes?
Yes—there are strategies to reduce your bill:
Check Your Assessment: Errors happen. If your home’s assessed value is too high, appeal through Los Angeles County.
Apply for Exemptions: Homeowner’s, senior citizen, and veteran exemptions can reduce your taxable value.
Stay Informed: Market downturns in Glendora or Diamond Bar might allow you to request a reassessment.
👉 More info: California State Board of Equalization – Property Taxes
Why Property Taxes Matter for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers: Always factor in property taxes when budgeting for a home in San Dimas, Covina, or West Covina. A lower-priced home with higher taxes may actually cost you more monthly than a higher-priced home with lower taxes.
For Sellers: Buyers often ask about annual property taxes when considering affordability, so having this info ready can make your home more attractive.
Final Thoughts
Property taxes may not be the most glamorous part of owning a home, but in the San Gabriel Valley, they’re an important part of your financial picture. By understanding how they’re calculated, why they change, and what options you have to manage them, you’ll be better prepared to make smart real estate decisions.
Curious how property taxes could impact your next move in the San Gabriel Valley? Let’s talk!
📩 Contact me at TessMarquez.com | (626) 712-5156 or call/text anytime!
By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist | TessMarquez.com
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