MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Reno County Residential Values Rise as Appraiser Reports Top Compliance Score
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County’s residential property values continue to rise as limited housing inventory and strong demand support higher prices, according to an annual update scheduled for county commissioners Wednesday, Oct. 14.
County Appraiser Michael Plank’s report shows total residential appraised value increased from about $3.17 billion in 2025 to $3.35 billion in 2026, a gain of approximately $183.2 million, or 5.8%.
Plank reported that residential sale prices are trending upward countywide, although appreciation has leveled off compared with the COVID-era housing market of 2021 and 2022. Total sales volume in 2026 is on pace to be comparable to 2024 and 2025.
“Despite increasing mortgage rates, local inventory remains low while demand remains high,” the report states.
Farmstead appraised values also increased, rising from approximately $341.3 million to $368.1 million. Commercial values declined from about $684.1 million to $675.5 million, while agricultural-use values fell from $155.3 million to $150.2 million.
Personal property appraised value dropped from approximately $70.3 million to $53.6 million. Plank attributed the nearly $16.7 million reduction to legislative changes approved in 2025 that exempted certain personal property from taxation.
According to the report, those exemptions did not change the valuation process, but shifted the associated tax burden across the remaining property classes. Plank reported no notable changes from the 2026 legislative session affecting appraisal procedures, exemptions or state property tax relief programs.
The appraiser’s office also earned the highest possible state compliance score for the second consecutive year.
The Kansas Department of Revenue’s Property Valuation Division awarded Reno County 100 out of 100 points in its 2026 review. A score of at least 75 is required for substantial compliance.
Plank said Reno County has maintained substantial compliance every year since at least 2016, and only about half of Kansas counties receive the maximum score.
The review evaluates appraisal accuracy and uniformity, procedures and compliance with state requirements. Staff duties include reviewing sales, conducting the state-mandated 17% property review, processing permits and appeals, and handling personal property filings.