As the property tax talk continues, an equally important part of the discussion sometimes gets missed. Yes, the talking points are clear. Fountain Hills does not have a primary property tax. Even with all the secondary taxes, we are still one of the lowest taxed communities in the Valley for the services we receive.

Fountain Hills rates as the lowest spent per capita on each resident (Queen Creek grew very fast, so is temporarily ahead of us) for the services received. We have several unbudgeted expenses that need attention like roads, streets, parks, municipal buildings, etc. Many site these examples as the sole justification for voting “yes” on the ballot measure.

I have a slightly different take, as my entire professional career in business, economic development and construction has been focused on the creation of value and the simple formula of return on investment. As sited by neighborhoodscout.com, since 2000, Fountain Hills residents have experienced an overall average residential real estate appreciation of almost 65 percent. The annual appreciation of your home is almost 3 percent (a little higher this year, so far).

Study after study confirms that good schools, roads, city services and public safety yields a much higher appreciation or return on Investment (Independencetitle.com).

If the average home in Fountain Hills is valued at $550,000, the 3 percent appreciation would be $16,500 annually. The proposed property tax on this same home would be around $600 per year. A $600 additional investment is relatively small to maintain a $16,000 return! The bonus here is that during this appreciation, we also receive incredible town services of parks, roads, public safety, etc. for the same investment; even our residents that rent receive a return.

Protect your investment. Let’s keep Fountain Hills the incredible community we all love. Vote yes for Fountain Hills!