Many areas decide your home’s taxes based on an ad valorem tax (a tax based on the assessed value of real estate).  It can be an unpleasant surprise to receive a letter informing you that your property taxes are increasing.  Particularly in the current economy, it sometimes happens that the assessed value of your home seems too high. 

Such situations can usually be resolved with a phone call.  But if you aren’t able to resolve things with your local taxing authority, there is still another avenue you can take to prove your case. As independent, professional, third-party appraisers, we can help you. 
 
Because there are as many different procedures for appealing assessments as there are property taxing districts, it's important to enlist the help of a professional appraisal firm that's experienced and trained in the ins and outs of your particular jurisdiction. 
 
NOTE: It makes sense to do your own research before determining whether to go forward with a property assessment appeal, especially before you make the decision to hire a professional appraiser. However, according to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), we are not allowed to take "shortcuts" -- i.e., your research -- and use it on its face as part of our independent evaluation. When you hire us for an assessment appeal, you're commissioning  an independent, third-party professional appraisal report. As such we do our own evaluation, beginning to end. If you're right that your property has been overvalued, an independent report such as ours will be even more persuasive than any other evidence you can marshal on your own. But it depends on our ability to do the work independently.

Sometimes, you will have a hearing on your assessment appeal and will need for the appraiser you've hired to testify on your behalf. Be assured that at Paris Realty Appraisals, we are able to professionally and persuasively testify at appeal hearings. Browse our website to learn more about our qualifications and expertise. See our different service options offered below.

Basic Package ($150)

This is a basic service, in which you will be furnished with printed material in reference to the appeal process. We will provide the listings of neighborhood market sales based on specific search criteria and guide you in preparing the Petition of Appeal form required for your appeal.

Standard Package ($225)

For our standard package, you will be furnished with printed material in reference to the appeal process. Our certified staff will fill out your Petition of Appeal and provide all supporting documentation and recommend a requested assessment.

Supreme Package ($500)

In our supreme package our certified staff will perform a full interior and exterior appraisal of your property. A written report designed specifically for the assessment appeal will be completed and filed with the appropriate Municipal Assessor, Municipal Clerk and County Board of Taxation. All initial filing fees are included with this option. Court appearances are available at an additional charge.

Guide to Tax Appeal Hearings

How Property is Valued for Property Tax Purposes