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New Jersey Office Tax Assessments – Declining Market May Actually Signal Increased Taxes
New Jersey office property owners may be facing increasing property taxes even as market values decline. Many properties in the state were assessed before COVID-19, and those outdated assessments may now be adversely impacted by New Jersey’s “Chapter 123” equalization methodology. Because municipalities use a single equalization ratio for all property types, dramatic changes in... Read More
Property Taxes — Highballed or Lowballed? It Might Depend Upon Location, Location, Location!
With property values on the rise, the threat of increasing property taxes looms over homeowners. New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the country. Although they may be a nuisance to homeowners, property taxes help finance local government projects such as education, public works such as roads and parks, and police and fire services.... Read More
Can The Government Use Eminent Domain To Take Property Already Devoted To A Public Use?
When you think about eminent domain, you probably imagine the government taking private property for highways or schools. But what happens when the property being taken is already serving a public purpose? This complex legal question affects property owners across New Jersey and requires understanding the delicate balance between competing public interests. The Fifth Amendment... Read More
U.S. Circuit Court Upholds the Requirement of Just Compensation to Landlords from COVID Eviction Moratoriums
On June 6, 2025, a U.S. federal appeals court ruled that the U.S. government may have to face property damage claims by landlords from a COVID-era eviction moratorium. In the case Darby Development Company Inc. et al. v. United States, No. 22-1929, residential property owners sued under the 5th Amendment’s Takings Clause which prevents the... Read More
How Societal Bias Shapes Eminent Domain Decisions
The societal bias inherent in eminent domain practices has become increasingly apparent as studies reveal its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities across New Jersey and nationwide. The government’s power to acquire private property, while essential for public infrastructure development, has given rise to projects ranging from railroads and highways to schools, hospitals, and parks. As... Read More
A Comprehensive Guide to Eminent Domain Just Compensation
In an eminent domain case, when a governmental agency or other condemning authority takes private property, the property owner is constitutionally entitled to receive eminent domain just compensation for the taking. This refers to the amount of money that will make the owner whole and indemnify them for the loss of the property. Frequently, just... Read More
Eminent Domain in a Nutshell
The definition of eminent domain encompasses a powerful legal doctrine that allows governments to acquire private property for public use, often sparking controversy and concern among property owners. This constitutional authority, while intended to serve the greater good, can sometimes be misused, leading to examples of eminent domain abuse that have shaped legal precedents and... Read More
Property Tax Caps Considered Across America
Property tax caps are legislative measures designed to limit the amount by which property taxes can increase annually. These caps are implemented to provide homeowners with financial predictability and to protect them from sudden and significant tax hikes that can occur due to rising property values. By controlling the increase in property taxes, these caps... Read More
Commercial Property Tax Implications in a Cooling Industrial Market
The industrial market, once a hotbed of activity and growth, is experiencing a notable cooling trend. This shift is primarily due to a combination of rising interest rates, decreased demand, and maturing leases and debt. Understanding the commercial property tax implications of this cooling industrial market is crucial for property owners and tenants alike. As... Read More
Morristown Property Tax Revaluation: What Homeowners Need to Know
Morristown is conducting its first property tax revaluation in 20 years. This process, originally scheduled for 2022, faced multiple delays but is now set to complete in 2024. The revaluation aims to create fair and accurate property assessments across the town. However, it’s causing concern among homeowners who worry about potential tax increases. Why Property... Read More
