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Whether or not new windows increase property taxes depends on where you live and by how much your upgrade increases your home’s value. Smaller projects likely won’t result in increased property taxes, but it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and check. Contact your local county appraisal department for the most accurate information about property taxes in your area. 

In most cases, installing a tennis court on your property will drive up your property taxes. Property taxes are determined, in part, based on improvements made to your property, which includes anything with a permanent foundation. Since most home tennis courts include a large concrete foundation, your property taxes will likely increase following the installation. A general rule of thumb is that if your project requires permits—like for a foundation or fencing for a tennis court—then your property taxes will be affected.

Yes, hiring a real estate agent is worth it. Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to sell their homes by themselves, thinking that they’ll save money on the commission, but what they save on the commission, they very often pay for in frustration and concessions on the sale price. Hiring a real estate agent to handle the sale of your home not only makes the process far easier and takes the burden off of you, but most homeowners get more for their homes when going through an agent because of the marketing and salesmanship they bring to the table.

While parts of the appraisal are out of your control, there are some things you can do to potentially raise the home’s value. You can make necessary repairs and upgrades before the appraiser visits—an appraiser can only value what is currently part of the home, not its potential. You can also provide the appraiser with the cost of recent upgrades. The appraiser will likely increase the value of your home by about 50% or more of what you paid for those improvements.