It happens every year. You get the mail and you see that dreaded envelope with a Gwinnett County return address. You know it’s your annual property tax bill and you tense up as you open it. You aren’t alone. No one likes paying taxes but you can take some comfort in knowing that Gwinnett taxes aren’t as steep as in many parts of the country.

Gwinnett taxes are some of the lowest in the nation

A study by the Tax Foundation shows that Gwinnett County property taxes are well below the national average. In 2004, Georgia homeowners paid average state and local property taxes of $880 per capita when the national average was $1086. In fact, there were 33 states that year that paid higher property taxes than Georgia did.

Another study by the Tax Foundation shows that the total state and local tax burden for Georgia is lower than the national average as well. The tax burden includes income, sales, and property taxes. In Georgia in 2006, the average state and local tax burden was 10.4% compared to the national average burden of 10.6%.

These low Gwinnett taxes make buying real estate in the county an even better investment than in much of the nation. With less of your money going to taxes, you can enjoy more of your income or even buy a larger house. It makes it that much easier to achieve the lifestyle you want.

Take advantage of property tax exemptions

You can make those low taxes even lower. There are many exemptions to Gwinnett taxes that reduce the taxable value of your home:

• Homestead Exemptions are available to new homeowners who occupy their house as the primary residence
  
  
• Senior Citizen Exemptions apply to homeowners who are 62 or older, depending on age, income, and disability
  
  
• Disability Exemptions can be claimed by homeowners who are 100% totally and permanently disabled. If the disability was related to service in the armed forces, the exemption extends to a surviving and unmarried widow or widower
  
  
• Value Offset Exemptions protects homeowners against sudden increases in property values in the booming Atlanta real estate market
  
  

Start with a qualified real estate agent

There is no need to face the anxiety of house hunting alone. A real estate agent can help you find homes you didn’t even know existed. An experienced professional will have access to all kinds of information about schools and other community services that will help you find the ideal location for your new home.

A good real estate agent can help you find the best property in the Atlanta area. You need to use an agent who understands your needs and knows the market. At Realty 1st, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional service to our customers. We listen to what you want and help you find your dream home. Contact Realty1st today and let us help you realize your dreams of home ownership.