SHARON — Vision Appraisal Technology, the firm contracted to complete the state-mandated revaluation of all real property for the town of Sharon, has mailed notices of the new assessments to all Sharon property owners. Real estate values have increased since the last revaluation completed in 1999. Preliminary figures reflect a 35 percent average increase since 1999, according to the Board of Assessors.

New assessment information is available through the Vision Appraisals Technology Web site at www.visionappraisal.com. This Web site will offer all Sharon property owners the ability to acquire information on specific details used in determining their new values. This site will also allow an inquiry-only access to the Board of Assessor's database, including value summary, building data and general revaluation information.

Property owners with questions regarding their new assessments are encouraged to arrange an informal hearing with a representative of Vision Appraisal Technology Inc. by calling 1-888-844-4300. Calls will be taken weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Feb. 10.

After the grand list is completed, a more formal appeal process is required by state statute. To formally appeal one's assessment, forms may be obtained in person from the Board of Assessors office at Town Hall during business hours after Feb. 27. To obtain a form by mail, send a request to: Board of Assessment Appeals, c/o Sharon Board of Assessors, P.O. Box 385, Sharon, CT 06069. An appeal cannot be heard unless the required form is submitted no later than March 20.

Properties with improvements not reflected on the prior grand list have increased at a greater rate. Examples would be a new dwelling, additions, pools, a guesthouse, substantial remodeling or completion of an unfinished dwelling. Some locations have increased in value at a greater rate than others. The informal hearings may result in adjustments upward or downward, based on information provided at the time of the hearing.

The focus of a revaluation is on property value only, not tax liability. Property owners should not apply the current mill rate to their new assessment since doing so will result in an inaccurate calculation. The increased assessments are expected to result in a decline in the mill rate. The new assessments will be reflected in the July 2004 tax bills.

The grand list will be finalized in late February 2004. This will include the updated real estate values, motor vehicles registered in Sharon as of Oct. 1, 2003, and personal property. Budgets will be compiled and reviewed by the Board of Finance during the next few months.

The 2004/2005 fiscal year mill rate based on the new budget and the 2003 grand list will be set at the May budget meeting.