If you own a home in Chatham County, you've probably received your 2026 property tax assessment—or maybe it just recently showed up in your mailbox.

For many homeowners, the timing has created confusion.

Although the notices were dated June 16, many residents reported receiving them weeks later, leaving far less time to review their assessment before the appeal deadline.

If you're wondering whether your home's assessed value is accurate or whether you should file an appeal, this guide walks through the basics and explains how the Harris Home Team can help.

Watch This First

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Quick Highlights

Why Homeowners Are Paying Attention This Year

This year's assessment notices look completely different from previous years because Georgia adopted a new statewide format. On top of that, many homeowners received their notices much later than expected, creating a much tighter timeline to review their property values before the appeal deadline.

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Should You Appeal Your Property Assessment?

An appeal may be worth considering if your property's assessed value is higher than what your home could reasonably sell for in today's market.

That doesn't automatically mean your taxes are incorrect, but it's worth reviewing if the value seems significantly above market value.

The Harris Home Team can provide comparable home sales (often called "comps") to help you decide whether an appeal makes sense.

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Don't Forget About Homestead Exemptions

Many homeowners can reduce their property taxes through the Homestead Exemption and Stephens-Day Exemption if they qualify.

One important thing to know is that you generally only file for the Homestead Exemption once. As long as the property remains your primary residence and ownership doesn't change, you typically don't need to reapply each year.

The Chatham County Tax Assessor also offers additional exemptions for certain homeowners, including qualifying seniors and surviving spouses of first responders.

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Check Your Property Information Carefully

An appeal isn't always about market value.

Sometimes the property record itself contains incorrect information.

For example, your tax record may list:

• More square footage than your home actually has
• An incorrect number of bedrooms or bathrooms
• Features that no longer exist

Errors like these could affect your assessed value, so it's worth reviewing your property record carefully.

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Filing an Appeal

If you decide to appeal, you'll file a PT311A Appeal Form with the Chatham County Board of Assessors.

According to the information shared in the video, homeowners don't need all of their comparable sales in hand before submitting the appeal—they simply need to file before the deadline and provide their opinion of value.

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How the Harris Home Team Can Help

One of the biggest advantages of working with a local real estate team is access to current market data.

The Harris Home Team can review your home's value, provide comparable sales, explain your assessment, and help you determine whether filing an appeal may be worthwhile.

This is offered as a free community service with no obligation.

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Need Help Reviewing Your Assessment?

If you're unsure whether your property assessment is accurate, don't guess.

A quick review of comparable home sales can help you make a more informed decision before the appeal deadline.

Reach out to the Harris Home Team through sellingsavannahhomes.com, or send a message on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. The team is happy to help homeowners better understand their property assessments and available exemptions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I appeal my property tax assessment?

If your assessed value appears to be higher than your home's current market value, it may be worth reviewing your options with a real estate professional.

Do I have to renew my Homestead Exemption every year?

No. In most cases, you only file once as long as the property remains your primary residence and ownership doesn't change.

Can the Harris Home Team help me decide whether to appeal?

Yes. The team offers free comparable market analyses to help homeowners better understand whether their assessed value appears reasonable.