DORI MONSON

Washington taxes are trickling down into renters’ pockets

Feb 26, 2018, 3:57 PM | Updated: Mar 20, 2018, 2:47 pm

washington taxes, money, irs...

(Got Credit, Flicker)

It may be arguable if tax breaks trickle down the economic ladder. But it’s certain to one landlord that Washington taxes are trickling down to his renters.

“I try not to pass all of it on all the time, but the way things are going, there’s not going to be any choice,” listener Norm told KIRO Radio’s Dori Monson. “… It’s going to come directly out of their pocket.”

Related: Snohomish County lawmakers bracing for 27 percent rise in property tax

Norm rents out a couple of identical homes in Shoreline, built in 1948. He admits the houses aren’t fancy. The 600-square-foot homes have seen few upgrades, such as some new windows. At $900 a month, Norm is offering a rare affordable housing option in the Seattle-area. But that’s not going to last long. He lost one renter in January after he raised the rent to match rising costs. That renter had to move out of the state. Norm is worried about his second tenant now.

“I could cover it by probably adding $60 a month, but more likely I would add $100,” he said. “… if we are going to keep going like this, pretty soon I’ll be renting it for $1,300 a month.”

Monson focus: Washington taxes
Taxes may force Capitol Hill neighbor out of town
Renter choosing between rent and car tabs
Tax bill may force retiree out of Seattle home
Making $100K a year and struggling to support a family

The rise is because Washington taxes on property have experienced a considerable rise this year. Both of Norm’s houses went up in value. One went up 17 percent, and the second shot up by 28 percent.

“It’s insane what’s going on – 28 percent is ridiculous, especially for a low-end property,” Norm said.

“I had to use my calculator 10 times to make sure I wasn’t getting it wrong,” he said.

That 28 percent on a low-income home is going straight to the renter.

Meanwhile, lawmakers are telling property owners to wait before paying their full property tax bill. The Everett Herald reports that legislators are working to relieve some Washington taxes before the session ends on March 8. That relief would affect current property tax bills. Property owners won’t get any over payments back, however, if they pay before that potential relief passes in Olympia.

Dori Monson Show

Dori Monson

Dori Monson stage show...

MyNorthwest Staff

Watch: Dori Monson’s ‘What are the Odds?’ stage show

In 2019, Dori Monson hosted a stage show - 'What are the Odds?' - which introduced you to the people who helped shape his improbable career.

1 year ago

Dori Monson welcomes the Moose back to KIRO. Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest...

MyNorthwest Staff

A collection of the all-time best Dori Monson stories

With the passing of Dori Monson, a collection of some of his top stories to remember all the hard work Dori brought to Seattle.

1 year ago

Alaska, fishing...

KIRO Newsradio staff

Listen: Friends, colleagues offer tribute to KIRO Newsradio’s Dori Monson

All day Monday, KIRO Newsradio's John Curley talked to friends, news makers, and more in tribute to Dori Monson.

1 year ago

Dori Monson Shorecrest...

Dori Monson Show

How to support charities reflecting Dori Monson’s values, passions

In tribute to Dori Monson, learn more about how you can support these three charities which best reflect his values, passions, and advocacy.

1 year ago

From left, Producer Nicole Thompson and KIRO host Dori Monson. (Courtesy of the Monson family)...

MyNorthwest Staff

Broadcasters, politicians, coworkers and friends remember Dori Monson

Dori Monson, a longtime KIRO Newsradio host, passed away Saturday. He is remembered by public figures, broadcasters, coworkers, and listeners.

1 year ago

Dori Monson...

MyNorthwest Staff

Longtime KIRO Newsradio host Dori Monson dies at age 61

We are deeply saddened to announce Dori Monson's sudden passing on Saturday, December 31, 2022, at a Seattle hospital.

1 year ago

Washington taxes are trickling down into renters’ pockets