Fight City Hall

Many people have asked me if they could get lower property taxes if their home value has dropped.
According to an article in AARP Magazine, roughly 1/3 of people who appeal their property assessment get relief. Don't delay--you have 30-60 days after a notice of assessment to appeal.
Here's what to do:
Head to the assessor's office to see your property card. Mistakes in square footage, lot size and more could be adding to the assessed value. Come armed with addresses of similar homes and compare their cards. Next, get sales data to document declining prices.
Look for unique factors--Are you right next to a drainage ditch or outside wall? Is your lot better or worse than your neighbors? Do the differences show up in the assessments?
Hire an appraiser ( if allowed). Some jurisdictions require an appraisal as a basis for an appeal--others forbid it An appraisal typically will cost about $300.00, but one in your favor makes for a strong case.
To get the comparable sales in your area, call me--I will be glad to help--760-285-7676