If you have purchased a home that is newly-built, the property may be subject to an additional real estate tax, known as the Supplemental Real Estate Tax. Massachusetts law requires the Board of Assessors to assess Supplemental Taxes on property when the value has changed by more than 50% during any fiscal year. While this could apply to any property, it is most often triggered by new construction.
If your property falls into this category, you will receive a Supplemental Tax bill, along with an explanatory letter from the Board of Assessors to explain how the amount of the supplemental tax was calculated.
Please note that if your real estate taxes are normally paid on your behalf by your mortgage company through escrow. It is your responsibility to make your mortgage company aware that these additional supplemental taxes are due.
If not paid timely, Supplemental Real Estate Taxes are subject to all collection remedies allowed under Massachusetts state law, including the placement of a tax lien on the property.