Buyers and sellers set real estate prices

When I received my property assessment notice, my value on my home and property had more than doubled. I was shocked, horrified, that this terrible thing had happened? I'm afraid to disappoint all of those who obviously have been somewhere other than Bonner County for the last few years. I own a restaurant and see folks every day who are either looking to buy or looking to sell property. Guess what, prices are up.

Buyers and sellers in the real estate market establish value. The assessor's staff researches the market and collects information about properties to arrive at value. When you go to sell your home and your real estate agent tells you that your home is now worth three times what you bought it for, do you get angry? Do you say, "No, I don't want my home to be worth that much. I want to sell it for less." Then, why shoot the messengers from the assessor's office who are telling you the same thing? Fear. You think because your house is assessed for double, your taxes will double. The assessor has no control over tax rates. That would be the commissioners and whatever taxing districts you are in. You did not get a tax assessment notice; you received a property assessment notice.

Oh, I wouldn't sell my home for what the assessor's office valued it at. It's too low. I think the newspaper would like to hear from all the others of you who have told me the same thing.

KAREN FORSYTHE

Sandpoint