Preliminary 2017 appraised values for homes in Hays County were released today, showing a 9 percent increase in the average market value of residences. Since the 2016 appraisals, 2,085 new homes and 49 new commercial buildings were built in Hays County. The value of residential multifamily properties increased 14.07 percent from $1.35 billion in 2016 to $1.54 billion in 2017. According to a news release from the Hays Central Appraisal District, that increase was attributable “to new construction, completion of new apartment projects and a strong demand for multifamily housing.” The appraisal district began mailing out the 86,122 appraisal notices May 1. Property owners have until May 31 to file a protest against their appraised values. In 2016, HCAD received 11,523 protests. To file a protest, visit the Hays Central Appraisal District office, 21001 N. I-35, Kyle, or call 512-268-2522 or visit www.hayscad.com. Here is a year-to-year comparison of the market value of homes in 2016 and 2017:

San Marcos

Of the taxing entities in Hays County, San Marcos saw the largest percentage gain in market value of homes. The average market value of homes in the city increased 11.69 percent from $153,709 in 2016 to $171,683 in 2017.

Kyle

In Kyle, the average market value of homes increased 9.77 percent from $170,547 in 2016 to $187,202 in 2017.

Buda

In Buda, the average market value of homes increased 8.16 percent from $228,444 in 2016 to $247,082 in 2017.

Hays CISD

In Hays CISD, the average market value of homes increased 9.46 percent from $179,624 in 2016 to $196,616 in 2017.

San Marcos CISD

In San Marcos CISD, the average market value of homes increased 9.55 percent from $157,956 in 2016 to $173,040 in 2017.

Dripping Springs ISD

In Dripping Springs ISD, the average market value of homes increased 8.73 percent from $345,209 in 2016 to $375,339 in 2017.

Wimberley ISD

In Wimberley ISD, the average market value of homes increased 7.55 percent from $235,082 in 2016 to $252,842 in 2017. Throughout Hays County, the average market value of homes increased 9 percent from $212,401 in 2016 to $231,509 in 2017.