hnhegde

The homestead cap limits annual appraised value increases to 10% over the previous year. In theory, if the taxing units maintained the same rate as last, yes, it would result in a 10% jump in tax amount too. Many taxing units reduced their rates a bit this year, given the higher appraisal values. Surprisingly, many Austin area homeowners reported their estimated tax amount stayed the same as last.

The owner has to live on the property and make it their primary residence, to claim homestead exemption. CADs will not know that until the owner applies for Homestead exemption. Not sure they can make it automatic.

Austin's housing prices graph resembles the Himalayas!

https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2022/10/04/how-texas-cities-...

But CA has prop 13!

Beginning Jan 1st 2022, a homeowner can apply for HS exemption the same year and if authorized, can get a pro-rated exemption for the rest of the year, if the preivous owner hasn't already claimed it. Ref: SB 8/2021. Bettencourt. https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/872/billtext/html/SB00008I...

That option is available to the elderly or disabled: https://www.star-telegram.com/opinion/bud-kennedy/article262...

"If you’re age 65 or older or fit one of several other categories, you don’t ever have to pay the property tax on your homestead right now at all. Get a tax bill? Forget it. If you file an affidavit, your tax bill is magically delayed. Nobody collects until you move on."

What evidence did you present? Did you take comps - sales comps and/or equity comps? You may be aware already, but in general, people take photos of their property that need repairs e.g., cracks in slab/foundation, leaky roof, mold infection etc.