Example 1:

• My assessment increased from $300,000 last year to $330,000 this year, a 10% increase.
• Other assessments on my street increased 1 to 2% and none increased by more than 5%.

There is a significant difference between the change in your assessment and the average on your street.

Example 2:

• My assessment stayed the same as it was last year.
• The assessments of homes in my town dropped on average by 12%.

There is a significant difference.

Example 3:

• My assessment increased by 4%.
• My three neighbours increased by only 1%, 2% and 2.5%.

The difference is small and not significant.

Note:  It is probably more accurate to look at all similar properties in your neighbourhood or area.