All registered voters in Okaloosa County can vote for this position.
The Okaloosa County Property Appraiser in Florida is responsible for determining the value of real property within the county for tax assessment purposes. The duties of the Property Appraiser include various tasks related to property valuation, assessment, and providing accurate information to support the local tax system. Here are the key responsibilities of the Okaloosa County Property Appraiser:
Property Valuation: The Property Appraiser determines the fair market value of all real property in Okaloosa County. This includes residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties.
Assessment of Taxable Value: The appraiser assesses the taxable value of each property for the purpose of calculating property taxes. This valuation is used by local taxing authorities to determine the amount of property tax owed by property owners.
Exemptions and Abatements: The Property Appraiser administers various exemptions and abatements allowed by law, such as homestead exemptions for primary residences, agricultural exemptions, and exemptions for certain disabled or elderly individuals.
Property Inspections: The appraiser’s office may conduct physical inspections of properties to gather accurate information about their condition, features, and any improvements that could affect their value.
Maintaining Property Records: The Property Appraiser is responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all properties in Okaloosa County. This includes ownership information, property characteristics, and historical data.
GIS Mapping: The appraiser may use Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology to map and analyze spatial data related to property parcels, allowing for more accurate assessments.
Value Appeals: Property owners have the right to appeal their property valuations if they believe there are errors or discrepancies. The Property Appraiser reviews and addresses these appeals, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Communication with Property Owners: The Property Appraiser communicates with property owners to provide information about assessments, exemptions, and the valuation process. They may also respond to inquiries and provide assistance to property owners.
Cooperation with Taxing Authorities: The appraiser collaborates with local taxing authorities, such as the Okaloosa County School Board and municipalities, to provide accurate property valuation information for budgetary and taxation purposes.
Education and Outreach: The Property Appraiser may engage in educational outreach programs to inform the public about the property assessment process, exemptions, and other relevant information.
Legislative Compliance: The appraiser ensures compliance with state laws and regulations governing property assessment and taxation. They stay informed about changes in legislation that may impact property values or assessment procedures.
Annual Assessment Roll: The Property Appraiser prepares and certifies the annual assessment roll, which details the assessed values of all taxable properties in Okaloosa County. This information is provided to the Okaloosa County Tax Collector for the calculation and collection of property taxes.
Okaloosa Property Appraiser Mack Busbee has lived in Okaloosa County his whole life. He graduated Northwest Florida State College and the University of West Florida. He began his career at the Okaloosa County Property Appraiser's Office in 2000 and won his first election for Property Appraiser in 2016.
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