Most areas offer exemptions that reduce your taxable value: a homestead exemption for your primary residence is the most common, with additional exemptions for seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. These usually require a one-time application and are surprisingly often missed — claiming one you're entitled to can save hundreds of dollars a year, every year.
If your assessment rises sharply or looks high compared to similar nearby homes, you can appeal it. The process varies by county but generally involves submitting comparable sales or an independent appraisal. A meaningful share of appeals succeed in lowering the assessment, and because property tax recurs annually, a successful appeal keeps paying off for years.