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1. How can I find information on a property?

To see online property information, click here.

Beacon.

2. What is homestead and what is needed to apply?

Homestead is a property tax reduction program, intended to keep taxes lower on owner-occupied homes, according to Minnesota Statute 273.124. In order to receive homestead exemption, you must present proof of ownership, complete a homestead application and provide the social security numbers of all owners. You must be listed as the owner on county tax records.

You must be owner and occupant by December 1 of the current year. The homestead application must be turned into the County Assessor's Office by December 15 to be eligible for the homestead classification for taxes payable in the following year.

If you have any questions or more information is desired, please feel free to contact the Assessor's Office at 507-332-6102 (from Northfield/Lonsdale call 507-645-9576).

3. When is the value of my property established?

The assessment date is January 2 of each year and the assessor determines a full or partial value of new construction, or improvements depending upon the state of completion as of that date. For more information visit, How the Assessor Estimates Market Value (PDF).

4. Will the Assessor's Office notify me of my property value and what I can do if I feel a mistake has been made?

After the assessment is completed, notices are mailed to the property owners. This notice will state the following:

• Current estimated market value from Jan. 2 and the prior assessment year.
• Limited market value for the current and prior assessment year.
• Classification of the property for the current and prior year.
• Taxable market value for the current and prior assessment year.
• Information for appealing the estimated market value or classification if you feel an error has been made on your property record.

It is very important that the property owner review this notice. The values stated on the notice will be used to calculate the taxes payable in the following year.

If you have any questions or want more information, contact the Assessor's Office at 507-332-6102 (from Northfield/Lonsdale call 507-645-9576) or attend the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting listed on your notice.