What term describes the value placed on a property by a governmental unit for property tax purposes?

The term that describes the value placed on a property by a governmental unit for property tax purposes is known as assessed value. This value is critical as it determines how much property tax the owner will need to pay. Each local government or taxing authority sets guidelines for assessing properties in their jurisdiction, which may not necessarily reflect the property's market value. This assessment usually considers factors such as the size, location, and condition of the property.

Market value, while related, refers to the amount a buyer would be willing to pay for a property in an open and competitive market, which can differ significantly from the assessed value used for tax calculations. Asset, in this context, is a broader financial term and does not specifically refer to property tax assessment. A balloon payment is a type of loan repayment structure that does not pertain to property assessment at all. Thus, assessed value is the precise term used in the context of determining property tax liabilities.