It's hard to believe that in 1972 the median home price was $34,610. Today, a homeowner could scarcely remodel a closet for that amount as the median home price has increased to $550,000 -- while the $7,000 homeowners exemption has remained unchanged.  Read more >>

Every year, about the time we start seeing pumpkins, an unpleasant, official looking envelope appears in property owners' mail boxes.

For most homeowners, the only solace when confronted by our property tax bill is knowing that, without Proposition 13, the amount owed would be nearly three times greater.  Read more >>

During World War II, experienced fighter pilots understood that if they maintained the maximum angle of ascent, eventually the aircraft would shudder, stall and begin to plummet toward earth. Recovery could be thousands of feet below.  Read more >>

Proposition 13 has always had its critics. Lately, however, the criticism has been more widespread. Even some policy analysts who generally favor limited taxes and less spending have complained of an "inherent flaw" in Proposition 13.

Because Proposition 13 uses acquisition value (usually the purchase price) as a basis of taxation, it is possible for owners of identical side-by-side properties to have significantly different tax bills. In short, the system generally favors those who have owned their property longer.  Read more >>

From time to time, HJTA members write and ask what to tell a new neighbor who just doesn't understand Proposition 13.

Those who have owned their homes for a while, easily see the value of Proposition 13. Many of us remember that before Proposition 13 the average property tax rate in California was three percent of assessed value and there was no limit on annual increases.  Read more >>