Texas Real Estate State Practice Exam

Which term describes a tax that can be charged to property owners when the government provides new infrastructure in a neighborhood?

1. Buffer Zone

2. Riparian Rights

3. Special Assessment Tax

4. Zoning

The correct answer is: Special Assessment Tax

Special Assessment Tax is a fee charged to property owners to fund the costs of constructing new infrastructure in their neighborhood, such as roads, sidewalks, and sewer systems. This option is correct because it specifically mentions the government providing new infrastructure in a neighborhood, which is the main focus of a special assessment tax. Option A, Buffer Zone, does not accurately describe a tax that is charged to property owners. Buffer zones are areas of land designated for specific purposes, such as environmental protection. Option B, Riparian Rights, also does not accurately describe a tax that can be charged to property owners. Riparian rights refer to the legal rights and privileges of property owners in regards to water resources, such as rivers and lakes. Option D, Zoning, is a related concept to special assessment taxes as it involves designating specific areas for certain uses, but it does not address the concept of funding new infrastructure. In summary, Special Assessment Tax is the best term to describe a tax that can be charged to property owners when the government provides new infrastructure in a neighborhood, as it specifically refers to the funding aspect of this process.