The Environment Prior to Proposition 13
Prior to Proposition 13, the property tax rate throughout California averaged a little
less than 3% of market value. Additionally, there were no limits on increases for
the tax rate or on individual ad valorem charges. (“Ad valorem” refers to taxes
based on the assessed value of property.
)
Some properties were reassessed 50%
to 100% in just one year and their owners’ property tax bills increased accordingly.