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Nicole Miller, HS Capital Realty LLCPhone: (518) 888-6907
Email: Nickibuys.sellsNY@gmail.com

How to determine ad valorem tax

by Nicole Miller 06/16/2025

Latin for "according to value," the term "ad valorem" is common in tax conversations. An ad valorem tax is flexible and dependent on the value of the specific asset, product or service. If you're a property owner, you're paying an ad valorem tax on your property taxes. To better understand how this term is used, here is a short guide to how ad valorem tax is calculated:

How do you find the ad valorem tax value?

Fair market value - Fair market value is usually determined by a real estate agent after a careful examination of the property and local market. Fair market value is based on factors like size, location, features and condition of the home. It can also be affected by the values of similar properties in your neighborhood.

Appraisal value - Appraisal value is found through a professional home appraisal. Appraisers conduct a thorough inspection of your home to make sure it meets specific standards. Things like condition, age and visual appearance all factor into an appraisal value.

Assessed value - Assessed value is calculated by taking the fair market and appraisal values and applying the local tax assessment rate. Assessment rates are different depending on the municipality and can also change.

These different values combine to help you find the ad valorem tax value of a property. In turn, this value affects how much you owe in annual property taxes. Regardless of whether you want to buy, sell or refinance a home, knowing this term can help you better navigate the world of home finances.

Familiarize yourself with the differences between fair market value, appraisal value and assessed value to gain a better understanding of how your property taxes are calculated.

About the Author
Author

Nicole Miller

Buying and selling real estate isn't a do-it-yourself endeavor. You need a home pricing expert, a skilled negotiator, and someone who's been trained and inspired by the best in the business. With over 30 years of experience in both real estate and the customer service industries, Nicki truly puts her clients first. 

While the Binghamton area was where she was born and raised, she knew the Capital Region was the perfect place to raise her 2 sons. Since travel sports were a large part of their lives, there isn't a town from Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, and Saratoga Counties she isn't familiar with.

Her core values in her commitment to her clients are integrity, hard work, and specialized attention to every aspect of the home buying process. She prides herself in being an innovative thinker, coming up with creative and practical solutions for her clients. Whether you are buying your first home, ready to expand, or downsizing she would love to help you reach your real estate goals! Welcome Nicki!