With property assessments being finalized in March, the Marion County Assessors Office reminds residents that now is the time to let the office know of changes that would affect property value. Marion County Assessor Kelli Kingrey says there are a variety of reasons that property values may change.

“Sometimes we’re not aware of dilapidated conditions, that sort of thing. Maybe they tore down a shed or a garage, something like that. If there’s new construction, we typically get a copy of the building permit from the city or county zoning, so we’re usually aware of those kinds of improvements. Sometimes people want their value raised because maybe they’re getting ready to sell and they notice we don’t have the updated information. Maybe they’ve remodeled, gutted the kitchen, or added basement finish. A lot of times, people don’t think to let us know that they’ve done something that could change the property value.”

Kingrey reminds residents that assessment values have direct correlation with property taxes, and that by the time property tax statements come out, it’s too late to protest the property value. Assessments will be mailed out beginning April 1st.