Why You Should Review Your Notice of Valuation
Every year, municipal and county property assessors use mass-appraisal algorithms (CAMA systems) to revalue millions of parcels simultaneously. These computer models often miss interior defects, foundation issues, deferred maintenance, or localized market downturns. Studies indicate that up to 30% to 50% of residential homes are over-assessed.
1 Review Your Property Record Card (PRC)
Visit your county's online parcel search portal and download your official Property Record Card. Check for factual errors: incorrect square footage, extra bathrooms, inaccurate building condition grades, or finished basement areas that do not exist. Factual errors are the easiest to correct with an informal assessor review.
2 Gather Comparable Sales (Comps)
Assessors value property based on comparable sales in your immediate neighborhood that occurred during the preceding 12 months. Find 3 to 5 similar homes (same subdivision, similar square footage, age, and style) that sold for less than your home's current appraised market value.
3 Document Property Damage & Deferred Maintenance
Assessors generally only inspect the exterior of homes from the street. If your home needs a new roof, has foundation cracks, outdated plumbing, or uncorrected storm damage, take clear photos and obtain repair estimates from licensed contractors. These costs directly reduce fair market value.
4 Mind the Strict Statutory Filing Deadline
Property tax protest deadlines are strictly enforced by state law. If you miss the deadline, you forfeit your right to challenge your valuation for that tax year.
- Texas: May 15 (or 30 days after Notice of Appraised Value is received).
- Florida: 25 days following the mailing of the TRIM Notice (typically mid-September).
- California: July 2 to November 30 (or September 15 in select counties).
- Illinois: 30 calendar days from the township reassessment publication date.
5 Present Your Case at the Hearing
Most counties offer an initial informal conference with a staff appraiser. If unresolved, you will attend a formal hearing before the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) or Board of Equalization (BOE). Present your comparable sales and contractor repair bids calmly and factually. Boards frequently grant compromises and assessment reductions on well-documented appeals.
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