Any advice with land tax objection???

[bpw]

Hi Everyone,

I was hoping to get some advice regarding objecting to a land tax valuation. I own 2 IP's, and my land tax bill this year was, in total, 89.93% higher than my bill last year. One of the properties was valued at 90k more than last year, resulting in what I believe was an unreasonable and exhorbitant increase in tax.

So, I sent off the 'Valuation Objection form', and supporting documentation which I believe backed up my argument that my land had been overvalued. This documentation was in the form of statistics from RP Data (kindly supplied to me by a local R/E agent). I also did some research on the net and included excerpts from a report I found, which supported my argument.

My entire objection was returned, with a cover letter stating that my objection did not meet the necessary criteria, as I didn't provide supporting evidence. I rang the suggested number for further help (1800 110 038). The lady, although sympathetic to my cause, really seemed to have less of an idea than me about what else is required, other that to suggest what I had already provided.

I realise that the valuation is based on land only, and RP Data figures are on properties as well, however does anyone know what exactly the Dept. of Lands wants in the way of supporting evidence? Do I need to get an independent valuation? Are they just trying to make it difficult for me so I give up? Any advice appreciated.

Thanks,
BPW

[Jacque]

Frustrating, isn't it BPW?
I believe that everyone should routinely object to land tax on principle as it's a capital and archaic tax that's simply not fair or necessary. Land tax erodes the capital nature of land and specifically penalizes everyday investors who hold properties that are not income producing. But I digress......

Did you check the Dept of Lands checklist before you sent off your info and supporting evidence?

http://www.lands.nsw.gov.au/LPServices/Valuation/objecting.htm

Just double check and you might find something of use here. Good luck with it all and keep us posted as to your success :)
Fingers crossed!

[bpw]

Thanks Jacque,

I thought I had read over all the Dept. of Lands checklist information sufficiently. Just had another look as you suggested, and can see where I might be able to improve my objection. So.....will keep on banging my head against the seemingly impenetrable brick wall, and see who gives in first!

And yes, it is frustrating. My job takes me into many peoples homes of various socio-economic status. Often I see people who are receiving govt. handouts, yet they often seem to have the latest gadgets, wide screen tv's, dvd players etc. Then there's me and others like me who support themselves and try to prepare for a welfare free retirement (however modest) and we get taxed to the hilt. Mmmm.....

[NedKelly]

Frustrating, isn't it BPW?
I believe that everyone should routinely object to land tax on principle as it's a capital and archaic tax that's simply not fair or necessary. Land tax erodes the capital nature of land and specifically penalizes everyday investors who hold properties that are not income producing. But I digress......

Did you check the Dept of Lands checklist before you sent off your info and supporting evidence?

http://www.lands.nsw.gov.au/LPServices/Valuation/objecting.htm

Just double check and you might find something of use here. Good luck with it all and keep us posted as to your success :)
Fingers crossed!

Land Tax is a wealth tax but just with a different name. It belongs back in the days of a tax on windows.