15/11/2025
RA 12001 (Real Property Valuation & Assessment Reform Act or RPVARA) – FAQ
1. What is RA 12001?
RA 12001 is the law that reforms the entire real property valuation and assessment system in the Philippines.
It establishes a uniform, transparent, market-based valuation framework for all LGUs.
2. Is RA 12001 already effective?
Yes.
The law became effective in 2024 after publication.
However, full implementation is scheduled for January 2026.
3. Why is implementation only starting in 2026?
The law requires LGUs and the DOF to first:
Prepare new Schedules of Market Values (SMVs)
Update valuation maps and conduct property inventories
Roll out the National Valuation Standards (NVS)
Train assessors nationwide
Build databases and digital systems
This is a nationwide structural reform — it cannot be rushed.
4. What is the biggest change under RA 12001?
Starting 2026, assessed value ≈ market value.
This means:
“Property values will no longer depend on guesswork. There will be a standardized basis.”
5. Will Real Property Tax (RPT) increase?
Possibly.
If assessed values increase, the tax base will also increase.
However, LGUs still control tax rates, which may or may not be adjusted.
6. Does this eliminate undervaluation?
Yes.
RA 12001 aligns valuation systems, making both underpricing and overpricing harder to justify.
7. Should I have my property appraised now?
Yes — especially if you plan to sell.
An early appraisal helps you:
Set realistic pricing before new values take effect
Avoid tax-related surprises
Prepare for negotiations based on updated standards
8. What is the impact on property sellers?
Seller-dictated pricing will disappear
Buyers will use the new assessed value as their reference
Overpriced listings will be rejected quickly
Professional appraisals will become essential
9. What is the impact on buyers?
Valuations become clearer and more consistent
Pricing becomes more transparent
Negotiations become more objective
10. What is the impact on brokers and agents?
“Guesstimate pricing” will no longer work
Updated knowledge of valuation standards becomes necessary
Appraisal reports move from optional to required
The industry becomes more professional and credible
11. Will underdeclaration for BIR purposes still be possible?
Very limited.
BIR, BLGF, and LGUs will follow an aligned valuation system, leaving less room for undervaluing properties in tax declarations.
12. How does this affect estate settlement and inheritance cases?
Valuation becomes standardized, reducing disputes and making estate settlement faster and more predictable.
13. When should property owners start preparing?
Now.
Year 2025 is the preparation period:
Appraisal
Pricing adjustments
Tax exposure review
Estate planning
Selling strategy
14. What should sellers do before 2026?
Obtain a professional appraisal
Set a realistic selling price
Decide whether to sell before the valuation adjustments take effect.