The appeal process for a tax assessment can be a tedious one, but the effort you put in up front to research your home's value will be well worth the time and money. Gather public records and consult real estate professionals to get a good idea of what similar houses are selling for in your area. If you wish, you can hire an appraiser to provide an in-depth report, including comparable properties, which may result in more accurate taxation. With thorough research and data under your belt, you're sure to present a solid case for questioning your assessment and reducing your tax burden.
Before considering challenging your property's assessment with an appraisal, it is important to know the value of your home. Research the local housing market and familiarize yourself with similar properties currently on the market. Obtain a few estimates from local real estate agents and use them to determine what you think is fair. If a significant discrepancy is present between this figure and your property tax bill may be worth discussing further—an appraisal could help clear up any confusion and provide a solid basis for disputing the assessment.
Challenging your assessment begins with gathering evidence to support your argument. Photos or videos of comparable homes in your area that have sold for less than your current assessed value can help demonstrate the worth of your home. These should be organized into a compilation you can provide with your challenge application. Similarly, a professional appraisal report by an independent expert could provide more in-depth analysis and bolster your case against the assessment findings. It's important to note that any changes would only apply to future years; the current assessment must be paid regardless of any new evidence presented.
When you have ready your documentation, submitting it to the assessor's office is the next step. Along with the documents, make sure to include a clear, concise request for a hearing. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, be sure that all forms have been filled out and that your evidence supports your position. Doing so will help create an atmosphere of accuracy, ethics, and professionalism as your case is evaluated.
At the hearing, it is important to present your case professionally and with a clear understanding of the facts. Make sure to bring a full set of documents and evidence to make your point in the best possible light. Show that you have put thought into how each piece of evidence contributes to your overall argument. Once all your evidence is presented, the assessor will then review it and consider whether or not to lower your assessment accordingly. Ultimately, preparing in advance for this meeting will be key to presenting a strong case for why you deserve a lower assessment.
If your research indicates that your home is worth less than the assessed value on your property tax bill, you may be able to get your assessment lowered by challenging it. To do this, you will need to gather evidence to support your case and submit it to the assessor's office along with a written request for a hearing. At the hearing, you will present your evidence and make your case for why you believe your assessment should be lowered. The assessor will then decide whether or not to lower your assessment based on the evidence presented.