Residential Property - Frequently Asked Questions

What is an improvement?

In appraisal, the term improvement simply means something that has been added to the land and is defined by the tax code as a building, structure, fixture, or fence erected on or affixed to land. It may also refer to a transportable structure that is designed to be occupied for residential or business purposes, whether it is affixed to land, unless the structure is unoccupied and held for sale or is temporarily located at a particular place.

What is Market Value?

Market value means the price at which a property would transfer for cash or its equivalent under prevailing market conditions if exposed for sale in the open market with a reasonable time for the seller to find a purchaser. Both the seller and the purchaser know all the uses and purposes to which the property is adapted and for which it is capable of being used and of the enforceable restrictions on its use. Both the seller and the purchaser seek to maximize their gains, and neither is in a position to take advantage of the exigencies of the other.

What is an Arm’s Length Transaction vs Non-Arm’s Length Transaction?

An arm's length transaction occurs between two unrelated parties who act independently and in their own self-interest. The final price typically reflects the true market value because both parties negotiate freely—the buyer seeks the lowest price, and the seller seeks the highest. A non-arm's length transaction involves parties with a pre-existing relationship, such as family, friends, or business associates. Common examples include parents selling to children, business partners transferring assets, or employers selling to employees. Foreclosures, short sales, and estate sales are often classified as non-arm's length because the seller may be under duress or prioritized speed over price.

How does the appraisal district know if an improvement has been added to or removed from my property?

The appraisal district may receive building permits or other public records to indicate that an improvement has been added or removed. We will also review aerial photographs and perform periodic reinspection of properties to see where changes have occurred. A property owner may also notify the appraisal district of changes that have been made to ensure awareness.

When does the appraisal district appraise property?

According to the tax code, all property is identified and valued at its status on January 1st of each year. Property that was not complete on January 1 is valued at a partial percentage based on its level of completion. Property that did not exist on January 1st is not identified in that year. Property that is removed or destroyed after January 1st remains on the tax roll until the following year.

Can I get a list of all residential sales?

Per Section 22.27 of the Texas Property Tax Code, the appraisal district is prohibited from disclosing sales information gathered from a private source. Taxpayers who have protested his or her property value are entitled to the sales used to value his or her property but no other sales information.

Property owners who would like more information regarding how the market value of their property is determined can file a protest and request district evidence to receive sales data that pertains to their property, such as a list of sales that occurred within the same neighborhood code. Property owners can also receive sales information by making an open records request. 

How can I get approval to modify, add structures, or make improvements on my property?

The Bexar Central Appraisal District does not have authority to approve or deny construction or property modification requests. You may wish to contact your city or county permitting office for guidance on approvals or building requirements.

Can I request a reappraisal on my property?

Our office appraises properties in mass based on a combination of cost schedules and market data to maintain uniform and equitable values. If you’d like an individual appraisal of your specific property, including the interior and exterior, you may hire a licensed fee appraiser at your own expense. The Bexar Central Appraisal District does not provide individual appraisals.

How much would my taxes be if I were to make improvements to my property?

The amount of taxes you may owe after making improvements to your property depends on several factors, including the type and value of the improvements and your local tax rate. The Bexar Central Appraisal District cannot determine a final answer at this time, as we do not assess or collect taxes — we only appraise property for tax purposes.

We can determine whether the improvement adds value to your property only after the construction has been completed. Once the improvement is finalized and appraised, your local taxing entities will use that appraised value to calculate your property taxes.

Can I have my property re-surveyed?

The Bexar Central Appraisal District does not conduct land surveys. Our office only updates property records with survey information if a survey is provided to us by a property owner or has been recorded at the county clerk’s office. If you would like to have your property resurveyed, you may contact a licensed surveyor of your choice to perform a new survey. Once completed, you are welcome to submit the updated survey to our office for review and entry into your property record.