The second biggest expense for homeowners, after the mortgage, is usually property taxes.

Here’s how to fightand reduceyour property tax bill.

This year, though, I winced a little less.

Perhaps the process seems complicated or homeowners aren’t aware of just how much they could save.

This value is calculated by your county’s assessor, but there’s lots of room for error.

Here’s what to do.

Step 1.

Just search for something like “Orange county assessor.”

Step 3.

Look for Mistakes in Your Property Description

The county site should list details used to assess your property.

Even small mistakes, like incorrect room sizes could lower your assessment.

More on that in a bit.).

Step 4.

Step 5.

Step 6.

Fill Out the Assessor’s Appeal Form and Send in Your Evidence

Finally, file your appeal.

Most counties do it in writing or let you file online.

Here’s asample property tax appeals letterthat you could send along with your appeal.

I do not have a deck as indicated.

Estimated tax value - $2,200,

My home does not have a 3 car garage as indicated.

It only has a 2 car garage.

Estimated tax value - $1,500.

The home is not 1,800 square feet of living space as indicated on your property tax record card.

I only have 1,000 square feet.

Reduced value of $7,500.

I filed an appeal four times, and was successful twice.

Photos byJSlavy(Shutterstock),Pixel Embargo(Shutterstock),Images_of_Money.