Starting March 23, 2009 appraisers will be visiting the 1,730 local residents of Milton to determine property values.  According to Curt Riley of Virginia based Property Tax Associates/DelVal (PTA) a study will be done of the real estate market in 2008 and early 2009 and the Milton real estate sales, making adjustments to value as determined.

A recent town charter was passed in March 2008 to have property assessments performed every 10 years.  The last townwide assessment for Milton was done in 1994.  Milton collected $585,000 in property taxes last budget year. 

However, reassessments do not normally increase the tax revenue to a town.  Their purpose is to even out the distribution of the tax burden.  Only about one-third of property owners will see a raise in property taxes.  While another one-third will see a decrease in property taxes and the remaining one-third will not see a change in property tax.

The appraisers will have photo id’s and their vehicles will be clearly marked with logos on the doors.  If a homeowner is not home a door hanger will be left asking for the homeowner to give additional information.  Each property owner will receive written notice by mail about any changes in assessed value.  The apprasier will be available to meet with the homeowner to discuss the findings.

All work will be completed by the end of the summer.