This month, Tony’s Tip addresses appealing your assessment – and ensuring your appeal isn’t frivolous.
May 7, 2018
APPEALING YOUR ASSESSMENT
It is not recommended that you file frivolous [without merit] appeals. Filing unwarranted appeals can cause friction between you and the assessment community. Not only does this cause ill will with the local governing unit, in some states it may even result in you being liable for all costs incurred by the taxing jurisdiction! See MTT Docket No. 15-002832; City of Royal Oak, respondent.
The recommended approach to proper real property assessment review is to start with a state certified general appraiser. Contract with this individual to complete a valuation analysis to compare with the value indicated by the assessment.
IF you find that the assessment appears fair or is even understated, you can at least feel confident that your company is being assessed fairly.
IF you find from this review that your assessment is overstated, arrange to meet informally with the assessor to review the appraisal and set up a tour of your facility at this time as well. DO NOT file an appeal without first trying the “informal approach.” This can result in better reductions at a lower out-of-pocket cost!
