• What taxes are you responsible for as a new homeowner?

When you purchase your home, property tax will be prorated between you and the previous owner before the close of escrow. However, make sure to carefully read through your title documents and escrow papers to confirm that everything is in order. Since property is reassessed at the time of purchase — and in San Francisco a home will likely be assessed at a higher value — expect to also pay a supplemental property tax bill which will reflect the difference between the former and current tax amounts, prorated for the remainder of the year.

• What if you disagree with your property tax assessment?

For questions or concerns about your tax bill, call the Office of the Assessor-Recorder at (415) 554-5596. If you are still not satisfied with their explanation of your tax obligations, call the Assessment Appeals Board at (415) 554-6778.

For more information about property tax obligations in San Francisco, call (415) 554-4400 or email your questions to Treasurer.TaxCollector@sfgov.org. You can also visit the Office of the Treasurer & Tax Collector online to view the “Property Tax Calendar” and find details on “How to Read Your Property Tax Bill.”