5 tips for winning property tax appeals

[poconnor]

Check for errors in the county’s information on your home, including its square footage, number of stories, condition and other characteristics. That information is on your assessment notice, but also ask the county for a copy of the property record card, which has a more detailed description of your property.


Do your homework.
Find sales of properties in your neighborhood that show that your assessment is too high. The properties should be similar size and condition and from the previous calendar year – not this year. Information about comparable sales is available on county websites.

Follow the instructions on the appeal form to make sure you’re complying with all it requires. If you can’t hand-deliver the form, take it to the post office so it will have a dated postmark.

Show up at your hearing. If the county board of assessors doesn’t resolve your appeal, you can get a hearing with the board of equalization. Many people don’t attend, but the county will present its evidence even if you’re not there.

Bring evidence. You can bring photos and other illustrations to support your case. You can also submit independent appraisals, repair estimates or other information relevant to the value of your property.