Should You Let the County Assessor In? | Minnesota Homeowners Guide

📬 Got a letter from the county assessor saying they’ll be stopping by your home? If you’re a homeowner in Minnesota, especially in areas like Blaine, Anoka County, or anywhere across the Twin Cities metro, you’re not alone — and you might be wondering: Do I really have to let them in?

Let’s break it down so you can make the smartest decision for your home and your taxes.

What Is the County Assessor Visit — and Why Did You Get a Letter?

Every so often, your county assessor's office will do a walk-through (or drive-by) of properties to help keep assessment records accurate. This is how the county determines your assessed value, which directly impacts your property tax bill.

The letter you received is essentially the county giving you a heads-up that an assessor may stop by to inspect the exterior — and possibly the interior — of your home.

But here’s the big question…

Do You Have to Let the Assessor Inside?

Short answer: No.
Letting the assessor into your home is not required, but it can work in your favor — or not — depending on your specific situation.

Pros of Letting Them In:

• ✅ If your home is outdated inside or has deferred maintenance, showing the interior might lower your assessed value (and lower your taxes).

• ✅ If your online record is incorrect (wrong square footage, bedroom count, etc.), this is your chance to correct it.

Cons of Letting Them In:

• ⚠️ If you’ve made unpermitted upgrades or luxury renovations, this could increase your assessed value — and your tax bill.

• ⚠️ If your assessment is already fair or even a little low, letting them in could open the door to an increase.

What You Should Do Before They Arrive

1. Look Yourself Up Online
   Head to your county assessor’s website and search your address. Review the current assessed value, square footage, bedroom/bathroom count, and other property details.

2. Compare With Recent Sales in Your Neighborhood
   Is your home assessed lower than similar homes that just sold? If so, you may want to delay access. If your assessment is high for the area, consider letting them in — especially if your home’s condition isn’t as upgraded as others nearby.

3. Schedule a Visit on Your Terms (If You Want)
   Many counties let you schedule a time with the assessor so you're not caught off-guard. You can also choose to allow only an exterior review — or no access at all.

What We See in Minnesota (Real-World Example from Blaine)

In Anoka County, for example, assessors will typically knock on the door and ask for interior access — but it’s completely optional. They’ll still complete an exterior review if you’re not home or choose not to let them in. Other counties like Hennepin, Ramsey, Washington, and Dakota follow similar practices.

In most cases, not allowing access won’t penalize you — but it also won’t give you the chance to correct any errors.

Bottom Line: Should You Let Them In?

It depends on your situation. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Your Situation Let Them In?

Home is outdated or needs repairs ✅ Might help lower taxes

You’ve added high-end upgrades ❌ Could raise taxes

Online records are inaccurate ✅ Can help fix them

You’re unsure ❌ Review records first, then decide

Ready to Be Proactive?

✅ Double-check your home’s online property data.
✅ Decide what level of access you’re comfortable with.
✅ Prepare a few notes if you want to correct any info.

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📣 CALL TO ACTION

📍Whether you're in Blaine, the Twin Cities metro, or greater Minnesota, staying informed gives you power.

💬 QUESTION FOR YOU: Have you ever had an assessor visit your home? Did it help or hurt your tax value? Share in the comments — we’d love to hear your experience!

📧 Thinking of buying, selling, or moving in MN/WI? Let's chat:
➡️ https://leonhardtteam.com/moving-in-minnesota-or-wisconsin

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