Homeowners in Ashford Hills contest property tax assessments amid rising market values

In a recent special meeting held by the Oklahoma County Board of Equalization on March 26, 2025, significant discussions centered around property assessments and the implications of rising market values in the Ashford Hills neighborhood. The meeting highlighted a staggering 73% increase in market value from the previous year, raising concerns among homeowners regarding their property taxes.

The primary focus of the meeting was a property located at 2301 Northeast 131st Street, which is situated in a gated community with limited comparable sales data. The property owner presented an appeal against the assessed value of $1,535,500, arguing that the assessment did not accurately reflect the market conditions or the unique characteristics of the home. The owner noted that the neighborhood had seen only two sales in recent years, complicating the assessment process.

During the discussions, it was revealed that the homeowners association had mistakenly informed residents of a 40% increase in their taxes, which was not accurate. Instead, the market value of properties in the area had indeed risen significantly, primarily due to the two recent sales that set new benchmarks for property values. This miscommunication has led to a wave of protests from homeowners, with 11 appeals filed this year alone.

The property owner, who has experience in commercial real estate, expressed frustration over the assessment process, stating that the adjustments made by the assessor did not adequately account for the size and condition of his home compared to smaller, recently sold properties. He emphasized the need for a more significant adjustment to reflect the true market value, as he believed the current assessment would hinder his ability to sell the property at a fair price.

The meeting also touched on broader implications for property assessments in the county, with officials acknowledging that many homeowners might feel the effects of rising valuations. The discussions underscored the importance of accurate assessments in maintaining trust within the community and ensuring that property taxes reflect fair market values.

As the meeting concluded, the board members were tasked with reviewing the appeals and considering the concerns raised by homeowners. The outcome of these discussions will likely influence future assessments and the overall approach to property valuation in Oklahoma County, as residents navigate the challenges posed by a rapidly changing real estate market.