Yesterdays blog post explained a little about the property tax appeal.  Today I will focus on the steps to follow it through.

For the most part a homeowner can approach the appeal on their own.  There are cases where homeowners opt to hire legal counsel or a private assessor.  The first thing you'll need to do if you do it on your own, is find out when the local tax assessors office accepts appeal applications.  Then go down to the office and pick up an application.  While you are at the tax office get a copy of your property card. This way you have a record of the comparable properties that were used to help figure out your assessment. 

Some jurisdictions may require the use of a licensed real estate appraiser so just look into that as well.  Work closely with the appraiser and you can even bring in a real estate agent to help with the comparable property choices.  All of the appraisers conclusions must be properly documented with supporting evidence in the appraisal report that will be submitted for the tax hearing.

The final step is the actual hearing before the assessment appeal board.  Being prepared is crucial in this step.  You've got to present your case and present it well.  It is wise to prepare a script detailing the important points that need to be made during your testimony in order to prove a lower market value and assessment.