If you’re a homeowner in Justin, chances are you’ve opened your property tax appraisal and thought, “How did they get that number?” You’re not alone. Property values across Denton County have risen quickly in recent years, and higher values often mean higher tax bills. The good news? Texas gives you the right to protest your property taxes every single year - and the process is more manageable than most people think.
Start With Your Appraisal Notice
Each spring, the Denton County Appraisal District (DCAD) sends out a Notice of Appraised Value. This shows what the county believes your home is worth. Take a few minutes to review it for accuracy. Is the square footage correct? Are there features listed that your home doesn’t actually have? Does the value seem higher than similar homes nearby? Even small errors can impact what you owe.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
For most homeowners, the deadline to file a protest is May 15 or 30 days after your notice is mailed—whichever comes later. Filing on time is critical, but filing itself is simple and can be done online, by mail, or in person.
You Don’t Need to Be an Expert
Many people avoid protesting because they think it’s complicated or confrontational. It doesn’t have to be. When you file, you’ll usually have an informal meeting with a DCAD appraiser first. Often, this step alone leads to a reduced value. If needed, your case can go before the Appraisal Review Board, where you’ll present your evidence.
Strong Evidence Makes All the Difference
The most effective protests are based on data, not emotion. Comparable home sales, photos showing condition issues, or documentation of repairs can all help. This is where many homeowners get stuck—and where local expertise can be valuable.
If you’d like help pulling recent comparable sales or understanding how your home stacks up against others in Justin, I’m happy to assist. Having accurate, local market data can make your protest much stronger.
A Matter of Fairness
Protesting your property taxes isn’t about getting out of paying taxes—it’s about making sure you’re paying a fair amount. With a little preparation and the right information, homeowners can take control of the process and potentially save hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
If you have questions or would like help reviewing recent sales, feel free to reach out.
Melinda Miller, Realtor
Magnolia Realty
817-881-0778