N.C. House Approves Additional Property Tax Relief For Homeowners

RALEIGH, N.C. — This week, North Carolina House Republicans advanced legislation to protect homeowners from steep property tax hikes tied to 2026 county reappraisals, delivering relief to many residents facing sharp increases in assessed property values this year.

Championed in the House by Guilford Reps. John Blust and Alan Branson, the one-year moratorium requires certain counties conducting 2026 reappraisals—including Guilford—to maintain their existing valuation schedules for the 2026–27 fiscal year, shielding homeowners from immediate increases driven by the new assessments.

The measures come as Guilford residents—particularly seniors and working- and middle-class families—face significant spikes in assessed property values, causing tax burdens to rise dramatically for many.

The chamber’s passage of the property tax pause is part of House Republicans’ affordability agenda to reduce the cost of living for families and small businesses across North Carolina. In recent weeks, lawmakers have approved ballot measures to place levy limits on property tax growth and constitutionally cap income tax rates.

Rep. John Blust (R-Guilford) said, “Guilford County’s revaluation numbers make it clear that lower- and middle-income families will be hit the hardest by rising property taxes at a time when many are barely able to make ends meet. If property taxes increase to the point where people can no longer afford their homes, then we have a serious problem. This moratorium gives Guilford homeowners breathing room so families aren’t taxed out of their own communities.”

Rep. Alan Branson (R-Guilford) added, “I’ve spent years running a small business and serving the people of Guilford County, and I know what happens when local government starts treating taxpayers like an endless source of revenue. The issues facing our county won’t be solved by sending our people higher property tax bills. That’s why I support this legislation to protect the hardworking families who simply want to stay in their homes.”