Property Tax Reduction

Property tax abatement services

A property tax abatement is a reduction in property taxes, either short term or long term, which would otherwise be payable on the value of a property. Cities and states provide tax abatements for a variety of reasons.

fountains forestry can assist a landowner seeking a tax abatement by providing accurate, relevant advice to enroll or not, developing an approved management plan, completing the sometimes onerous application process, and monitoring for compliance.

Current use programs

To protect natural resources and limit real estate development, some states have enacted current use programs to provide property owners with tax savings in exchange for limiting the property's use to passive activities such as farming, recreation, or timber harvesting. Forested land enrolled in a state's current use program is often appraised for property taxes based on the value for forestry instead of on the fair market value. Forestland appraised under current use programs will receive a special assessment as long as it is actively managed.

fountains forestry can assist in the application process by providing professional forest management and timber harvesting plans, which are typically required for approval of current use. The forest management plan will state a landowner's long-term goals, describe the forest stand conditions, and establish requirements and standards relating to cutting and provisions for endangered animals and threatened plants. Once approved, fountains forestry can provide active management as well.

Regulations and laws for these programs vary by state. fountains forestry has worked with landowners seeking tax abatements or current use status in the following states: NY, VT, NH, MA, WV, TN.

 

“They provide the product you’ve asked for, on time. There’s not a lot of hand holding with fountains.”

– Timberland investment manager

 

Forest Management

Timber Sale Administration

Forest Certification

Timber Valuation

Forestland Appraisals

Forest Investment
Due Diligence

GIS Data Analysis
and Mapping

Timber Income Accounting

Forest Conservation Easements

Property Tax Reduction

Recreational Leases

Timber for Sale