Property taxes in California

[JDee Moore]

BP,

Just received a property tax notice. Reading the notice front to back, I realized that I can apply for an exemption because I occupy the property (being my primary place of residence). 

Here is the problem I've been paying property taxes since 2008 only recently did I realized that I was exempt from paying property taxes. Long story short, I've been paying taxes on my property that I didn't have to. 

In 2012, because of the taxes I was forced to refinance (payed $3k to refinance), so that my property taxes would be included into my mortgage payment. This whole time I could've avoided all this mess by applying for a home owner exemption. 

I called all parties involved, my bank/lender (Wells Fargo), County Tax office and Assessor's office. I was told when I moved into my house that I should've received a letter that gave me the option to go exempt on my property taxes, if I occupied the property. 

The problem is when I called to apply in 2008 (when we moved in), the county told me that they couldn't asses the property yet, because the area was still under development. So no assessment could be made on my property until the county was ready. 

What are my options before I finally apply for a home owners exemption on my property taxes. Do I get a refund for the years of paying property taxes and forced to refinance and not given ample time to apply for an exemption? Do I have a case against the county?

Thanks BP 

JM