Hilliard homeowners who saw their property values jump an average of 11% in the 2026 triennial update can push back before those numbers become final. Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano's office is accepting Property Value Review requests through Sept. 5.
The informal review gives owners a 20-minute appointment, virtual or in person at locations across Franklin County, to present evidence that their tentative appraised value is wrong. Owners who prefer not to meet can submit documents online through the auditor's Know Your Home Value portal.
"This is the best opportunity for property owners to review their information and raise concerns before values are finalized," Stinziano said in an announcement from the auditor's office. "We want people to look up their property, check the details and contact us if something does not appear right."
Few homeowners have acted so far. Franklin County has nearly 500,000 parcels, and fewer than half of 1% of owners had requested a review as of Aug. 3.
What to bring
The auditor's office recommends gathering:
- Recent comparable sales in your neighborhood
- A professional appraisal, if you have one
- Photos showing the property's condition
- Documentation of incorrect property characteristics (square footage, room count)
- Estimates or records for significant repairs
No decision is made during the appointment. The appraisal team reviews submitted materials and notifies owners of the outcome afterward.
Why a value increase doesn't mean an equal tax hike
The 11% average increase for homes in the Hilliard City School District, based on an analysis of arm's-length sales from 2023 through 2025, does not translate to an 11% jump in tax bills, according to the district. Tax calculations also factor in local tax rates, voter-approved levies, exemptions and how values shift across an entire taxing district. Stinziano made the same point on the Hilliard Beacon podcast on July 11, explaining that Ohio's HB 920 prevents a direct pass-through.
Stinziano also noted that a review isn't necessary just because a value went up. The question, he said, is whether the auditor's appraised value and the property details on file are accurate.
What happens after Sept. 5
Once the review window closes, values go to the Ohio Department of Taxation for approval. Final values are expected in December 2026 and will apply to the 2026 tax year, with bills arriving in 2027.
Homeowners who still disagree after final values are issued can file a formal complaint with the Franklin County Board of Revision.
Beth Fairman-Kinney, director of outreach for the auditor's office, previewed the review process at Hilliard City Council's May 11 meeting, telling council members that homeowners who disagree with their tentative valuation could provide supporting documentation or photographs for further review. Vice President Tina Cottone and other council members expressed surprise at the magnitude of value changes, particularly in neighborhoods east of Dublin Road.
How to get started
Visit audr-kyhv.franklincountyohio.gov to look up your tentative value and schedule an appointment. Questions can be directed to [email protected] or (614) 525-HOME (4663).
