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The numbers are going up. That’s what property owners across Prince Edward County are learning this week, as they get the 2025 reassessment notices. According to the Wampler Eanes Appraisal Group, Prince Edward property values have increased, with an average hike of 40%. 

First off, why is this happening? You can thank Virginia law. The Code of Virginia requires that a general reassessment of all real property (that includes residential, commercial, industrial, even vacant land, etc.) be conducted by every county to update the assessed value to reflect current fair market value.  A “reassessment” is the process by which the assessed value of real estate property is periodically updated to keep the value consistent with what the property is worth on the open market, also known as Fair Market Value, and to assess properties fairly in comparison to each other. 

Prince Edward operates on a four-year cycle for reassessment. As for why Prince Edward property values need to be adjusted? That’s to make sure the tax burden is distributed fairly. A group from Wampler Eanes worked through the fall of 2024 to put this together, with the increased property values taking effect as of Jan. 1. 

Crunching the numbers 

So let’s get right into it. What does an increased assessment mean? While the higher number does mean an increase in property value, it doesn’t automatically mean higher taxes. We’ll find out what this year’s tax bill looks like at the end of the budget process. That process has just started, so we’re a few months away from a decision. 

It is important to note that the county real estate tax rate for 2025 has not yet been set. Tax rates are established annually in April by the Prince Edward Board of Supervisors during the county’s budget process. When that happens, a  public hearing on the tax rate and the FY26 County Budget will be advertised here in The Herald and posted on the Prince Edward County website at www.co.prince-edward.va.us. You’ll also have a chance to weigh in, as there will be public hearings scheduled in April before the tax rate gets set and the budget gets approved. 

Why the delay with Prince Edward property values? 

Prince Edward residents were supposed to get these reassessment notices back in December, but the process got delayed somewhat, due to a death in the Wampler Eanes group. Once you get your reassessment notice this week, you’ll be able to appeal if you feel it needs to be adjusted. Maybe it’s too high or too low. Either way, you can appeal by mail, email, phone or by scheduling a meeting in person. 

Written appeals, including supporting documents or photos, can be mailed to “Reassessment Office” ℅ P.O. Box 382, Farmville, VA 23901, or emailed to PrinceEdward2025@gmail.com, and must be received by Feb. 21. The tear-off portion at the bottom of your reassessment notice is what a property owner should return by mail, or scan and send by email.

To schedule a hearing appointment, property owners should call 434-569-3007 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or email PrinceEdward2025@gmail.com. 

Now if you want an in-person appointment, county staff ask that you call or email by Feb. 11, in order to make sure that happens. Assessor hearings will be held Feb. 12, 13, 14, 18 and 19, 2025, on the Third Floor of the Prince Edward County Courthouse.