Frequently Asked Questions

A Property Transfer Affidavit must be filed whenever real estate or some types of personal property are transferred (even if you are not recording a deed). It is used by the Assessor to ensure the property is assessed properly and receives the correct Taxable Value. It must be filed by the new owner with the Assessor for the City or Township where the property is located within 45 days of the transfer.  The information on this form is not confidential. 

Penalties

If the affidavit is not filed timely, a $5.00 per day penalty applies:

Note: These penalties apply to real property except those classified as industrial or commercial under Section 34c, which follow a separate fee structure.

Transfer of Ownership

Transfer of ownership means the conveyance of title or the beneficial use of the property. There are both partial and whole transfers of ownership. The Assessor’s office will determine the correct percentage and uncap the Taxable Value accordingly.

A Property Transfer Affidavit (PDF) must be filed whenever property transfers ownership (even if you are not recording a deed). It is used by the Assessor to ensure the property is assessed properly and determine if the sale is a valid sale to use to help in determining upcoming assessments. It must be filed by the new owner with the Assessor for the City within 45 days of the transfer. If it is not timely filed, a penalty applies. See the FAQ for "What is a Property Transfer Affidavidt" for more information.

If the property will also be your primary residence a Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit (PDF) should be filed.  

Both forms, once completed, can be returned to the Assessor’s Office by either:

•    In-person - a date stamped copy will be given to you as your receipt of filing. 

•    Mail - a date stamped copy will only be mailed back to you if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. 

Please do not email either form.

You must file a Request to Rescind Principal Residence Exemption (PDF) to remove the exemption.  Once completely filed out it can be returned to the Assessor’s Office in-person or by mail.

You should also contact the Building Department to ensure compliance with all ordinances for rental properties. 

As with renting the property, you must file a Request to Rescind Principal Residence Exemption (PDF) to remove the exemption.  Once completely filed out it can be returned to the Assessor’s Office in-person or by mail.

You should also contact the Building Department to ensure compliance with all ordinances for rental properties.