If you are going to tax a home, you tax it on its value. To arrive at the correct value you need to factor in a nice view, a bus stop nearby, a conservatory, a patio, or anything else that adds value to the home.

We have always had property taxes in the USA, at least since I've been alive. I can't believe they are just getting around to it over there.

Originally posted by sligtlyskeptical
If you are going to tax a home, you tax it on its value. To arrive at the correct value you need to factor in a nice view, a bus stop nearby, a conservatory, a patio, or anything else that adds value to the home.

We have always had property taxes in the USA, at least since I've been alive. I can't believe they are just getting around to it over there.

In America, it's my understanding that the private Real Estate agents along with a city or county inspector will assess the value of your home based on many criteria. Gov't officials aren't generally allowed into the owners home where as a mortgage company financing a home loan might want a quick tour to assess.

In any event, property taxes levied in the states is, generally speaking, based on the free market value of a home and it's location and the govt.'s valuation. Govt.'s valuation isn't as anal as this proposed British version.

The 'painting' or 'marking' stories that *I think* that you are referring to are the US Census. Not the classical sense of the census either. GPS 'painting' of the front doorways of US citizens' homes is just damn spooky.

To claim that it's part of the census is an outrage. As is the long version of the census form. We're required to provide the number of people living in the home and that's it. Google Michelle Bachmann for a cool buzz.