Property taxes are superior to most every other lien. This superiority is why lenders often require an escrow account to make sure taxes are paid on time. You can lower your taxes on your residence by filing a homestead exemption with the county tax commissioner.  You must own the property as of January 1st though in order to qualify for the exemption.  Each county has its own process and deadline. Many counties now allow you to apply year-round (even if it does not take effect until the next calendar year) and on-line.   Cities who collect their own taxes will also apply the homestead exemption.  The exemption varies from county to county and from city to city.

When you go to sell or purchase real property, the taxes will be pro-rated as of the date of the sale. If the  current year has not been issued yet, the amount will be based on the previous year’s taxes. Most property tax bills cover the full year. For example, the Gwinnett county tax bill due in November of 2011 was for January 1st, 2011 through December 30th, 2011. Review your tax bill to make sure it shows you have all the proper exemptions and make sure you have filed for your exemptions before the deadline.