Myrtle Beach Homeowners Grapple with Significant Property Tax Hikes Following Reassessment

Myrtle Beach Homeowners Face Steep Property Tax Increases

What’s Happening in Horry County

Residents of Myrtle Beach and the wider Horry County area have recently been hit with their property tax bills, and let’s just say, many are feeling a bit overwhelmed. The response from homeowners has been a resounding “Whoa, that’s way too much!” With property values skyrocketing—and in some cases, doubling—many bills have skyrocketed right along with them.

The Background Story

So, here’s the scoop: this year was a reassessment year, which is something that comes around periodically. Around 270,000 folks in Horry County received assessment letters back in July, and if you didn’t, make sure to check the county’s website and remember, you’ve got until January 15 to appeal that tax bill!

Homeowners Speak Out

Among those feeling the pinch is Ruby Carrllo, a recently retired homeowner. She opened up about her experience, saying, “How can you keep going up on taxes on someone who has a fixed budget?” Ruby is worried, just like many, that these increases could force some people out of their homes. And she’s not alone—many are grappling with similar feelings.

Antoinette Tocheck, another Horry County homeowner, said her increase felt massive, and she’d never seen a bill so high. “And I’m one of the first houses built, I’m one of the first owners in the neighborhood.” She’s clearly feeling the weight of the tax increase as she looks at her budget and wonders how she’ll cope.

The Official Response

But hang on, it’s not all doom and gloom! Back in July, the Horry County Tax Assessor informed residents that while property values can soar, there’s a safety net in place. South Carolina has a rule stating that homeowners can’t see a tax bill increase of more than 15% in a single year, which might bring some relief to anxious residents. Just because your home’s worth a little more doesn’t mean you’re going to be completely bled dry.

Steps to Take

If you feel like your tax bill is off the charts, you’re not alone. Lisa Dequarto faced a similar situation last year. She too felt her taxes were incorrect, and when this year rolled around, things hadn’t changed. “They were supposed to have been corrected this year,” Dequarto explained. Feeling frustrated, she quickly contacted the county’s tax assessor, who responded swiftly and were super helpful.

Dequarto is hoping to see her revised tax bill drop from $3,900 down to a more manageable range of $800 to $900. “I’m content now,” she said with a sigh of relief. “Once I get that new tax bill, I’ll be happy then.”

What’s Next?

As Myrtle Beach residents adjust to these new tax realities, the hope is that they can navigate the process smoothly. While the reassessment might sting, it’s worth keeping in mind the state’s limits and the process for appealing if you think your bill is unfair.

In the meantime, those who are concerned are encouraged to advocate for themselves. After all, reaching out to the county and asking questions is the best way to understand and potentially lower that bill. Remember, it’s your home and your hard-earned money!

Conclusion

So, Myrtle Beach, hang in there! While the news of rising property taxes isn’t the best, knowing that you’ve got the chance to appeal and a cap on potential increases can hopefully ease some worries. Let’s keep talking about these issues and supporting each other through the financial ups and downs.