EstatePass
ValuationProperty_taxHARD

A buyer is comparing two properties in Alabama: Property A is a single-family home with a fair market value of $300,000, and Property B is a small retail strip center with a fair market value of $300,000. Both properties are subject to the same millage rate. Which of the following correctly describes the difference in their annual ad valorem tax liability under Alabama's classified property tax system?

Correct Answer

D) Property B will have double the tax liability of Property A because it is assessed at twice the ratio.

Under Alabama's classified ad valorem tax system, Property A (residential) is Class IV, assessed at 10% of fair market value, while Property B (retail/commercial) is Class II, assessed at 20% of fair market value. Since the assessment ratio for commercial property is exactly double that of residential property (20% vs. 10%), and both are subject to the same millage rate, Property B's tax liability will be exactly double that of Property A. For example, at 40 mills: Property A tax = $300,000 × 10% × 0.040 = $1,200; Property B tax = $300,000 × 20% × 0.040 = $2,400 — exactly double.

Answer Options
A
Property A and Property B will have identical tax liabilities because they have the same fair market value.
B
Property A will have a higher tax liability than Property B because residential properties are taxed at a higher rate.
C
Property B will have a higher tax liability than Property A, but it will be less than double the amount.
D
Property B will have double the tax liability of Property A because it is assessed at twice the ratio.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Valuation Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Valuation

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Valuation

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

property_taxclass_IIclass_IVassessment_ratiocomparisonresidential_vs_commercialad_valorem
Was this explanation helpful?

More Valuation Questions

People Also Study

Valuation Questions

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing