Property Appeals.com - Rewis & Yoder, P.C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who actually makes the decisions regarding my appeal after my hearing?
The Board of Property Assessment Appeals and Review makes decisions on all appeals based on information presented during your appeal hearing.

If my appeal results in a reduced value, in what form will my refund come?
County tax refunds come in the form of refund checks, not tax credits. These are mailed by the Treasurer's Office. Please call (412) 350-4109 for specific information on individual refunds. For information about school and municipal tax refunds, check with your local taxing bodies.

What is Fair Market Value (FMV)?
The goal at an assessment appeal hearing is to substantiate the fair market value of your property. Fair market is the most probable price a property should bring in a fair sale.

Isn’t Sale Price the same as Fair Market Value?
NO!!! Sale price is a factor that can be considered, but SALE PRICE is not the only factor to be considered in determining FMV of your property. In fact, hundreds of appeals have been filed by the various taxing authorities based simply on sale price. If you fall into this category you should contact our firm IMMEDIATELY! We believe you may be needlessly handing over tax dollars to the tax authorities. Remember, there is no risk or out of pocket expense to you.

Why are the Taxing Authorities (School Districts, Municipalities, and the County) filing appeals against Property Owners?
Most appeals being filed by the Taxing Authorities are based solely on Sale Price. These appeals have been filed as part of a concerted effort to generate more tax revenue. As you now know Sale Price is NOT controlling, but if you, the property owner, do not dispute the increase in your assessed value you will lose your right to appeal and will be required to pay the tax increase. We believe we can successfully reduce your assessed value and ultimately reduce your total tax bill.

If I have received notice of an appeal by a Tax Authority what are my options?
As a property owner you have a variety of options available to you.

Do nothing. However, if you choose this course of inaction you will see an increase in your tax bill.
Fight the Appeal yourself. You have the right represent yourself in the tax appeal process. You can attend the hearing to dispute the evidence submitted by the representative of the Taxing Authority and make your case to the Hearing Officer as to why your Assessed value should not be increased or why your assessed value should be decreased. We currently have numerous clients who have unsuccessfully pursued this option and have now placed their appeal in this firms capable hands.
Employ Legal Counsel. In our opinion this is the best route for any property owner to take. Employing our firm ensures that you are represented by attorneys who are familiar with the Appeals process. Our firm will also pay for an expert appraisal and expert testimony so that we may present the best possible case for a reduction in your assessed value. As you can imagine this is generally the best possible approach when seeking an assessment reduction.

How Can We Help?

Contact us now.