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May 2, 2025

The crucial mistake that can cost you a property tax hike

With the passage of Proposition 19, California law now requires that property be reassessed at death. That means when a homeowner passes away, their property taxes—often low due to Prop 13 protections—can increase significantly, often to 1.25% of the home’s current market value.

For most families, this can result in a substantial tax burden.

There is one exception:

If the property was the primary residence of the deceased and a child is living in the home, the property tax reassessment may be avoided. But this exception is not automatic.

To qualify:

-You must file the correct forms with the County Assessor promptly.

-The transfer must go directly from parent to child—not from sibling to sibling.

-Any mistake in how the transfer is handled can cause reassessment, even if the child remains in the home.

These rules are complex, and missing a step can cost your family thousands in higher property taxes. If you’ve recently lost a parent and want to protect your inheritance, give me a call. I can walk you through the process and help you avoid costly mistakes.

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Geisler Patterson Law


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