Wisconsin homeowners already bear one of the heaviest property tax burdens in the nation. Despite more than a decade of strict levy limits that have held down property tax increases and saved taxpayers over $14 billion since 2011, Wisconsin still ranks 8th in the nation in property taxes. Now, a new law threatens to send those taxes soaring unless state lawmakers take action in the next budget.

The issue? School funding.

Under this new law, if lawmakers fail to fully fund K-12 education in the 2025–27 state budget, school districts may be allowed to raise additional funding through increased property taxes without public input via referendum. In short: if the state doesn’t pay, property taxpayers will.

This puts Wisconsin property owners and REALTORS^® in a tough spot.

Everyone understands the value of strong public schools. Great school districts boost home values, attract families, and create vibrant communities. As REALTORS^®, you see firsthand how quality education systems drive local real estate markets. But the way Wisconsin funds schools is outdated and unsustainable. 

It’s time to rethink how we support our schools. Rather than relying on property taxes to fill funding gaps, the state must step up and find alternative sources for a greater share of education costs. A more balanced approach would protect property owners, promote fairness, and reduce the growing financial strain felt by families and seniors across Wisconsin.

To help raise awareness and encourage searching for a more well balanced funding strategy, the Wisconsin Homeowners Alliance has launched a campaign aimed at informing the public and urging lawmakers to act before it’s too late. You can learn more about these efforts at BuriedByPropertyTaxes.org.

The campaign highlights the core message: Wisconsin property taxpayers cannot afford to be buried by property taxes. Now it’s time for state leaders to step up and relieve the pressure on property owners.

This issue goes beyond school boards and budget committees; it affects the entire real estate industry. Higher property taxes could price buyers out of neighborhoods, further hinder growth and stability in the housing market, and make it harder for REALTORS^® to do business. That’s why REALTORS^® need to be at the forefront of this conversation.

What you can do

• Stay informed: Visit BuriedByPropertyTaxes.org to learn more about the issue and become engaged
• Speak up: Contact your state legislators and let them know that property owners shouldn’t have to shoulder this burden alone
• Share the message: Talk to clients, colleagues and community members about why property tax reform matters and how they can help.

There’s still time to act. The state budget process is underway, and lawmakers will be making critical decisions in the weeks ahead. The more voices they hear from Wisconsin property owners and REALTORS^®, the more likely they are to deliver a budget that funds our schools without raising property taxes.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about numbers on a tax bill — it’s about protecting the value of homeownership and ensuring families, seniors and those on a fixed income can stay in their homes.

REALTORS^® have always been trusted advocates for their clients and their communities. Now is the time to raise your voice and demand a fairer, more sustainable path forward.