If you own a home in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or anywhere else in the Triangle, you probably received your new property value from Wake County. For many homeowners, these new numbers were higher than expected. Since property taxes are based on this assessed value, an inaccurate number could mean you are paying more than your fair share. The good news is you have the right to appeal.

This guide will walk you through the Wake County appeal process, important deadlines, and how to present a strong case. Whether you live in Wake Forest’s historic district, a newer neighborhood in Rolesville, or anywhere else in the Triangle, the process is the same.

Why You Might Want to Appeal

Wake County reassesses all properties every few years to reflect current market values. In the most recent revaluation, residential properties saw an average increase of around 53 percent, with some areas in the Triangle increasing even more.

While values rising is a sign of a strong market, they are not always accurate for individual homes. Common reasons to appeal include:

The county has incorrect information about your property (square footage, lot size, number of bedrooms or bathrooms)

Your home’s value is based on outdated or non-comparable recent sales

The condition of your home is not reflected in the valuation (needed repairs, damage, outdated systems)

You can see Wake County’s full guide to appealing property values here: https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/tax-administration/tax-bill-help/appealing-tax-values

The Two Types of Appeals in Wake County

1. Informal Review

This is the first step for most homeowners. You can request an informal review online, by phone, or by mail. You will need your Real Estate ID and Access Code from your revaluation notice.

Online portal: https://wakecounty.munisselfservice.com/citizens/RealEstate/

Phone: 919-856-5400

Mail: Wake County Tax Administration, P.O. Box 2331, Raleigh, NC 27602

Include any supporting documents like recent appraisals, comparable sales from your neighborhood, or repair estimates. The Tax Administrator’s Office will review your case and send you their decision, usually by mid-April.

2. Formal Appeal to the Board of Equalization and Review (BOER)

If you are not satisfied with the informal review or prefer to go straight to a formal appeal, you can file with the BOER. This independent board hears both your case and the county’s before making a decision.

Details on the BOER process: https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/tax-administration/tax-bill-help/appealing-tax-values/board-equalization-and-review

Hearings are held at the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC. You may attend in person, but it is not required.

Deadlines You Need to Know

Informal Review Deadline: Typically March 1 following your revaluation notice

Formal Appeal Deadline: March 2 through May 15

If you miss these deadlines, you will have to wait until the next revaluation cycle to make changes.

How to Build a Strong Case

Check Your Property Record

Visit Wake County’s property search page to confirm the county’s details about your home: https://services.wakegov.com/realestate/

Gather Recent Comparable Sales

Look for homes similar in size, age, and location to yours that have sold recently in Wake Forest or your area of the Triangle.

Document Property Condition

If your home has issues that reduce its value, take photos and get cost estimates for repairs.

Be Professional and Organized

Present your evidence clearly and stick to facts. Avoid emotional arguments.

What Happens After You Appeal

For informal reviews, you will receive a written decision from the Tax Administration. For formal appeals, the BOER will notify you of a hearing date if you choose to appear. After the review or hearing, you will receive a written decision. If you win, your property tax bill will be adjusted and you may receive a refund if you have already paid.

Tips for Wake Forest and Triangle Homeowners

Property values can vary greatly between neighborhoods, so use comparable sales from as close to your home as possible.

In fast-growing areas like Heritage, Holding Village, and Traditions in Wake Forest, prices can change quickly, so make sure your comps are recent.

Do not be afraid to appeal if you have evidence. Many homeowners in the Triangle never appeal simply because they assume the county’s value is correct.

Where to Get Help

Wake County Revaluation Call Center: 919-857-3800

Email: revaluation@wake.gov

General Tax Help: taxhelp@wake.gov or 919-856-5400

Appealing your property tax value is your right as a homeowner. It is free to file, and with the right preparation, you could reduce your property tax bill. If you believe your home’s value is too high, start your appeal early and make sure you have strong evidence.

For the official Wake County appeal information, visit: https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/tax-administration/tax-bill-help/appealing-tax-values