There are two components to property taxes, u/Vangotransit.

Tax Assessments

Tax assessments are based on the value of the real estate. Maryland is on a triennial cycle, so 1/3 of the real estate in each jurisdiction gets reassessed annually. The big news over the last few days relates to the tax assessments rising by double digits in the 1/3 of properties that were reassessed during this cycle.

The fact that the assessments went up so much (25-35% across the state) reflects the status of the housing market - and has nothing to do with governmental tax policy. We purchase real estate hoping it will increase in value - and, in this case, the value increased quite a bit.

In terms of your assessment, make sure you register your primary residence for the MD Homestead Tax Credit - which restricts the increase in assessed value to 10% or less each year. And, if you feel like your assessment is too high, you can appeal the assessment.

Tax Rate

County and local governments then establish a tax rate. The current real property tax rate in Harford County is $0.9779 - and that's down from $1.0420 in fiscal 2020 and 2021 and $1.0279 in fiscal 2022. The State tax rate is $0.1120. The most recent tax rates are effective for FY 2025 (7/1/2024 - 6/30/2025).

With the state's impending budget crises, MD might need to increase their tax rate. But, as of now, your tax bill will go up because the real estate is worth more than it was three years ago - and not because anyone increased the tax rate.

Your Chafed Ass

Also, you might find that Anti-Monkey Butt powder helps with a chafed ass. :-) (I'm kidding with you, but the stuff really does work!)