As Orange County undergoes its latest property revaluation, homeowners and businesses should prepare for another significant rise in property values. The county’s assessment, which occurs every four years, is expected to show a total value increase of over 50%—a reflection of the region’s competitive real estate market.
In a recent presentation to the Board of County Commissioners, the Orange County Tax Administration outlined key trends from the 2025 review. The latest figures indicate a substantial jump in valuations since 2021, largely driven by surging home prices and escalating construction costs.
The revaluation process considers several factors, including property type, neighborhood, age, condition, and size. It serves not only to adjust property values to current market rates but also to ensure fair tax distribution among property owners.
A Statewide Trend
Orange County Tax Administrator Nancy Freeman emphasized that this increase is not unique to the area. A statewide survey of counties undergoing revaluations this year showed an average increase of 61% and a median increase of 55%. Orange County's projected 51% increase is in line with other counties that also last revalued properties in 2021.
“Although it seems like a large increase, we’re seeing that throughout the entire state,” Freeman explained.
The rapid rise in home values has been particularly evident in Chapel Hill, where the median sales price for a single-family home jumped from $474,000 in 2021 to $695,000 in January 2025, according to the Orange Chatham Association of Realtors. While other areas of the county also experienced increases, Chapel Hill’s numbers are among the most striking.
Enhanced Appraisal Efforts
To conduct the revaluation, the county uses a mass appraisal system incorporating permit data, government records, and field assessments. This year’s process included more in-person visits, particularly in areas with high appeal rates in 2021 and among commercial properties.
“We could not do as many in 2021 because of the COVID restrictions,” Freeman noted. “So, we were very happy to do more and have more boots on the ground to do this.”
Freeman also acknowledged that pandemic-related disruptions led to fewer residents being aware of the revaluation process four years ago. This time around, the county expects around 2,500 informal appeals and 750 formal appeals.
Preparing for Tax Implications
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair of the Orange County Commissioners, urged residents to carefully review their property value notices when they arrive in mid-March. The informal appeal period runs through April 30, allowing homeowners to correct any discrepancies, such as inaccurate property descriptions.
“When you get your notice, you’re going to go ‘Oh my gosh’ [from the increase],” Bedford said. “But remember that we then will lower the actual tax rate to be revenue neutral to start with.”
While the tax rate will initially be adjusted downward, she cautioned that it may not stay there long-term.
For those wishing to contest their valuations, the formal appeal process begins May 1, with cases heard by the Orange County Board of Equalization and Review before the board adjourns on July 31.
Homeowners can check their updated property values and access appeal forms on the county’s website. More details about the revaluation process can be found on the Orange County government page.
This article is based on original reporting from Chapelboro.