Mile High Home Group – Welcome to Denver

Are Property Taxes High in Highlands Ranch?

Property taxes in Highlands Ranch run moderate for Douglas County—around 0.6-0.8% of assessed value, or $4,000-$6,000 annually on a $700K median home, competitive with Littleton real estate but lower than denser Denver spots in the Colorado housing market.

Tax Breakdown and Calculation

After 15+ years in Denver real estate and thousands of transactions, I’ve crunched tax bills for clients across Highlands Ranch villages. Douglas County assesses at 7.15% of market value (e.g., $50K on $700K home), multiplied by mill levies around 85-100 for schools, fire, and roads—total effective rate holds steady without spikes. Newer builds near Mountain Vista pay slightly more for growth-funded services; townhomes under $600K ease under $4K. HOA fees ($150-$400) offset some maintenance taxes. Compared to Littleton Public Schools districts (similar 0.7%), Highlands Ranch real estate benefits from efficient county management.

Reassessments hit even years, smoothing cycles.

Factors and Comparisons

Top schools (9-10/10 ratings) and trails justify levies—funds support expansions without bonds. Low crime keeps fire/police costs down versus urban Denver real estate (1%+ rates). Highlands Ranch avoids metro district overages common in Parker edges; market appreciation (4-6%) raises bills gradually, but caps limit jumps. Littleton real estate varies by historic zones; core Denver piles on urban fees.

Retirees note senior exemptions shave 10-50% for qualifiers.

Practical Advice for Buyers and Sellers

Buyers, run tax estimators on targets—budget $500/month, prioritize villages under 0.75% rates; appeal assessments post-purchase if comps lag. Families factor school portions; negotiate seller-paid prorations.

Sellers, disclose two-year history in listings—highlight low rates boosting comps. Price with tax stability; stage for value perceptions.

My hands-on, concierge-level service projects taxes block-by-block, weighs school/HOA/trail fits through market cycles, builds pricing from local sales, and negotiates relentlessly for tax-smart deals. Clients are long-term relationships and friends, not transactions—integrity, honesty, transparency, and relentless work ethic keep surprises minimal.

If property taxes shape your Highlands Ranch real estate view—or comparing to Denver or Littleton—reach out anytime. I’m here for a no-pressure conversation and honest guidance tailored to the Colorado housing market.