Comal County Property Taxes: How To Make Sure You’re Paying A Fair Amount

Key Takeaways: 

• Understand Local Appraisal Methods: Learn how Comal County uses mass appraisal and adjustment techniques to determine your property’s taxable value.
• Know Your Options Beyond Assessment: Explore lesser-known exemptions and property-specific conditions that may qualify you for tax reductions.
• Navigate the Protest Timeline With Confidence: Get a clear breakdown of the annual protest cycle, helping you act at the right time to challenge overvaluations.

At Icon, we don’t just file property tax protests — we outperform. With a 97% success rate and over $50 million in reductions secured for Texas property owners, our results speak louder than promises. We lead with data, strategy, and relentless advocacy that cuts through the noise and delivers real savings.

Property taxes in Comal County can feel like a moving target — especially as values spike in fast-growing cities like New Braunfels and Garden Ridge. Appraisal notices often come with sticker shock, leaving homeowners and investors wondering whether they’re being taxed fairly. But behind every tax bill is a system of valuation, exemptions, and deadlines that—when understood—can be navigated to your advantage. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a recent buyer, knowing how to engage with the system can be the difference between overpaying and owning your financial power.

In this piece, we’ll break down how property values are assessed in Comal County, outline the protest timeline, uncover exemptions you may qualify for, and provide a step-by-step guide to challenging inflated assessments with confidence.

How Are Property Values Assessed In Comal County?

Property valuations in Comal County directly influence the amount homeowners and commercial property owners are expected to pay each year. But many residents are left wondering whether the values assigned to their properties truly reflect their home’s worth. Understanding the methods used in this process gives property owners the knowledge—and leverage—they need to evaluate the fairness of their assessments.

Mass Appraisal: The Standard Approach

The Comal Appraisal District uses a method known as mass appraisal to determine property values. Rather than conducting individual property inspections, the district evaluates groups of similar properties based on a variety of market data. This includes recent local sales, square footage, age of the property, renovations, and visible structural conditions.

For instance, if multiple comparable homes in your neighborhood sold for $375,000 recently, that figure becomes a reference point for your home’s assessed value—regardless of your specific home’s condition or upgrades.

Adjustments for Fair Comparisons

Because no two properties are exactly alike, adjustments are applied to ensure fairness. If a neighboring home sold for $400,000 but had a new pool worth $30,000 and yours doesn’t, the appraisal district may reduce that sale’s value for comparison purposes. On the flip side, your home may be valued higher if it features recent upgrades like a modernized kitchen or an extended living space.

These mathematical adjustments aim to level the playing field, but they depend heavily on the accuracy of the chosen comparisons.

Subjective Judgment Still Plays a Role

While the mass appraisal model follows formulas and trends, human judgment still plays a critical role in selecting comps and applying adjustments. Appraisers must decide which properties are truly comparable and how different features or locations affect value. Two homes with similar square footage may be valued differently due to curb appeal, traffic noise, or location within a newer versus older subdivision.

Key Deadlines For Protesting Property Taxes

Timing is everything when it comes to challenging your property tax assessment in Comal County. The window to protest is short, and missing a deadline can lock you into a valuation that may not be accurate. Staying on top of key dates ensures you maintain your right to seek a fair tax bill.

January 1: Valuation Date

The value of your property is determined as of January 1 each year. This date serves as the reference point for all property assessments, meaning any changes in the market or your property’s condition after this date typically won’t affect the current year’s valuation.

April 15: Appraisal Notices Mailed

Around mid-April, the Comal Appraisal District begins mailing out Notices of Appraised Value. This document outlines the county’s estimate of your property’s market value and serves as your official notification. Review this notice carefully—it’s your first opportunity to spot any discrepancies or signs of overvaluation.

May 15: Protest Filing Deadline

This is the most critical deadline. To challenge your property’s assessed value, you must file a formal protest with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) by May 15, or 30 days from the date your appraisal notice was delivered, whichever is later. If you miss this deadline, you won’t be able to formally contest the valuation for that tax year.

Mid-May to July 20: ARB Hearings

Once your protest is filed, a hearing is scheduled with the Appraisal Review Board. These hearings typically occur between May 15 and July 20, depending on volume. This is your opportunity to present evidence and argue for a revised assessment.

January 31 (Following Year): Payment Deadline

If your protest is successful, your adjusted tax bill will reflect the lower value. Regardless of whether you protested, all property taxes are due by January 31 of the following year. Payments made after this date are subject to penalties and interest, which escalate each month.

Exemptions Available To Comal County Homeowners

Comal County offers a variety of property tax exemptions that can help lower your annual tax bill. These exemptions apply under specific conditions and, when used correctly, can lead to significant long-term savings for homeowners.

Homestead Exemption

Homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence may qualify for the Homestead Exemption. This reduces the taxable value of the home by $100,000 for school taxes or up to 20%, easing the tax burden and offering protections against steep annual increases.

Over-65 Exemption

Residents aged 65 or older can apply for an additional exemption that further reduces their taxable value. It also caps the amount of school district taxes owed each year, creating long-term stability for seniors who may be living on fixed incomes.

Disabled Veterans Exemption

Veterans with a service-connected disability may be eligible for partial or full exemptions based on their disability rating. A veteran with a 100% disability rating can receive a full exemption on their primary residence, eliminating their property tax obligation entirely.

Renewable Energy Device Exemption

Installing solar panels, wind systems, or other renewable energy devices can qualify a property for an exemption on the added value these systems bring. This means you won’t be taxed more simply because you made energy-efficient upgrades to your home.

Historic and Agricultural Property Exemptions

Properties with official historic designations or those used for agricultural purposes may be eligible for special exemptions. These typically come with unique requirements, but the resulting savings can be substantial when the qualifications are met.

Steps To Take If You Believe Your Property Is Overvalued

If your appraisal notice shows a value that feels too high, don’t assume you’re stuck with it. There are clear, proactive steps you can take to review and challenge your property’s assessed value—and potentially reduce your tax bill.

Review Your Appraisal Notice and Property Details

Start by closely examining the appraisal notice you receive from the county. Check for inaccuracies in square footage, property condition, year built, or improvements that may have been incorrectly reported or overestimated.

Research Comparable Sales (“Comps”)

Look for recently sold properties in your area that are similar in size, condition, and features to your home. If these comparable homes sold for less than your assessed value, you may have strong evidence to argue that your property has been overvalued.

Verify the Appraisal District’s Data

Go online and review the appraisal district’s records for your property to ensure everything is accurate. Mistakes like incorrect building materials, extra amenities you don’t have, or overstated lot size can all contribute to inflated values.

File a Formal Protest Before the Deadline

Once you’ve gathered supporting information, submit your protest to the Appraisal Review Board by the May 15 deadline. Include clear documentation to back up your case, such as comps, repair estimates, or photographs that demonstrate discrepancies.

Prepare for Your ARB Hearing

If your protest leads to a formal hearing, be ready to present your evidence and explain why the county’s valuation doesn’t reflect your property’s actual market value. You’ll have the chance to answer questions and support your case for a lower assessment.

Final Thoughts

Property taxes in Comal County can be a significant expense, especially as property values continue to rise. Understanding how your home is assessed, what exemptions are available, and how to protest an unfair valuation puts you in a stronger position to manage that burden effectively.

While the process can feel overwhelming, homeowners who take the time to verify their assessments and act within the protest window often see meaningful savings. Whether it’s catching data errors, identifying better comps, or applying for exemptions you didn’t realize you qualified for, being proactive can make all the difference.

Taking control of your property taxes isn’t just about saving money—it’s about protecting your investment. Stay informed, stay organized, and take advantage of every opportunity to ensure your tax bill accurately reflects your property’s true value.

Frequently Asked Questions About Comal County Property Taxes

How can new homeowners in Comal County prepare for their first property tax bill?

New homeowners should familiarize themselves with how property tax is calculated and when it’s due. Setting aside funds in advance and understanding potential exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, will help avoid surprises when the first bill arrives.

What happens if my mortgage company pays my property taxes?

If your mortgage includes an escrow account, your lender typically collects estimated taxes each month and pays the county on your behalf. It’s still important to review the appraisal notice and ensure the value is fair, even if you’re not paying directly.

Do property tax rates vary by city within Comal County?

Yes, property tax rates can vary depending on the city or taxing entity (such as school districts or municipal utility districts) within Comal County. These entities set their own rates, which are combined with the county rate to calculate your total bill.

Is there a benefit to paying property taxes early in Comal County?

While there are no early payment discounts, paying early helps avoid potential processing delays and ensures peace of mind—especially near the January 31 deadline. Some property owners prefer early payment to simplify year-end financial planning.

How do property taxes in Comal County compare to neighboring counties?

Comal County’s rates are generally competitive, but rapid growth in areas like New Braunfels can cause appraisals—and tax bills—to rise faster than in neighboring rural counties. Comparing similar properties across counties can offer useful perspective.

Are there special considerations for property taxes on rental properties in Comal County?

Rental properties do not qualify for a homestead exemption, so they’re taxed at their full appraised value. Landlords should be especially vigilant about fair appraisals to protect profitability.

What role do school districts play in Comal County property taxes?

School taxes often make up the largest portion of a property tax bill. Each school district in the county sets its own rate, and these are directly affected by your property’s appraised value.

Can I appeal my property taxes multiple years in a row?

Yes, if you believe your valuation is unfair, you have the right to file a protest each year. Annual reassessments mean values can change yearly, and so should your review.

Does Comal County reassess properties after major natural disasters?

In cases of major damage, such as from floods or storms, property owners may qualify for temporary disaster-related exemptions or reevaluations. It’s important to report these changes promptly to the appraisal district.

How are property taxes used in Comal County?

Property taxes help fund public services like schools, emergency services, infrastructure maintenance, libraries, and parks. These local services are directly supported by the taxes collected within the county.