Appealing Property Value Assessments

In Florida, what does appealing a property value assessment encompass?

Appealing the property appraiser’s assessment of your property’s value in Florida involves challenging the valuation determined by the county property appraiser’s office, which is used to calculate your property tax. The appeal process allows property owners to contest the assessed value if they believe it is inaccurate or unjust.

Property owners can appeal the appraiser’s valuation through the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) process. The VAB is an independent board of local government officials who hear and decide property valuation disputes. For example, if a property owner presents evidence that comparable properties in the area were assessed at lower values, it may suggest that their property’s assessment is too high.

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Which laws and regulations apply to appealing property value assessments in Florida?

In Florida, the laws and regulations governing the process of appealing the property appraiser’s assessment of your property’s value can be found in the Florida Statutes and the Florida Administrative Code. Specifically, Chapter 194 of the Florida Statutes and Rule 12D-9 of the Florida Administrative Code outline the procedures, deadlines, and requirements for filing a petition with the VAB.

These sources guide the steps for initiating the appeal process, submitting relevant documentation, and participating in hearings before the VAB. Property owners must familiarize themselves with these laws and regulations to ensure a successful appeal and avoid missing important deadlines or requirements.

What are the strategic benefits of appealing property value assessments?

Property owners may benefit from the following:

Reduced Property Tax Liability: By appealing the property appraiser’s assessment, property owners can potentially lower their property’s assessed value, thereby reducing their property tax liability.
Fair Valuation: Property owners may feel the appraiser has overvalued their property. Appealing the assessment can ensure a fair valuation based on accurate data and market conditions.
Comparable Sales Analysis: Through the appeal process, property owners can present evidence of comparable sales, which may lead to a more accurate assessment of their property’s value.
Errors And Inaccuracies: The appeal process allows property owners to identify and rectify errors or inaccuracies in the appraiser’s data, ensuring their property is assessed correctly.
Increased Property Marketability: A lower assessed value could make a property more attractive to potential buyers, as it may result in lower property tax obligations for the new owner.
Knowledge of the System: Engaging in the appeal process enables property owners to become more knowledgeable about the property tax system and better understand their rights and responsibilities.

Please contact our office to set up your initial consultation to determine whether property tax dispute services may be available for your unique situation.

What steps should counsel take to facilitate appeals of property valuations?

Counsel should consider the following to protect their clients:

Research Property Records: Property tax attorneys should begin by examining property records and the appraiser’s assessment to identify errors, discrepancies, or inconsistencies.
Analyze Comparable Sales: Attorneys should analyze recent sales of comparable properties in the area to establish a basis for challenging the property appraiser’s assessment.
Review Applicable Laws and Regulations: Property tax counsel should be well-versed in Florida law and legal procedures to ensure compliance with all procedural requirements and deadlines.
Prepare and File the Petition: Attorneys must prepare and file a petition with the local Value Adjustment Board (VAB) within the required timeframe, outlining the basis for the appeal and providing supporting documentation.
Participate in VAB Hearings: Property tax counsel should represent the property owner during VAB hearings, presenting evidence and arguments to support the appeal and advocating for a fair assessment of the property’s value.
Negotiate Settlements: Property tax attorneys may negotiate settlements with the property appraiser’s office to achieve a satisfactory resolution without needing a formal VAB hearing.

When a set of facts is appropriate for legal intervention, there are many paths a claimant may take. We are value-based attorneys at Jimerson Birr, which means we look at each action with our clients from the point of view of costs and benefits while reducing liability. Then, based on our client’s objectives, we chart a path to seek appropriate remedies.

To determine whether your unique situation may necessitate litigation or another form of specialized advocacy, please contact our office to set up your initial consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to appeal my property tax assessment after receiving the notice?

Upon receiving the Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM notice), property owners in Florida have a limited time frame to appeal the assessment. According to Florida Statutes §194.011, property owners have 25 days from the mailing of the TRIM notice to file a petition with the VAB.

Can I appeal my property tax assessment if I missed the VAB petition deadline?

If you missed the 25-day deadline to file a petition with the VAB, you may still be able to seek relief through alternative methods. One option is to file a lawsuit in circuit court challenging the property appraiser’s assessment under Florida Statutes §194.171. However, it is essential to consult with an attorney specializing in property tax disputes to discuss your specific situation and the best course of action.

What evidence must I present to appeal my property tax assessment successfully?

When appealing your property tax assessment, providing substantial evidence to support your claim that the assessed value is inaccurate is crucial. This evidence may include recent sales of comparable properties in your area, expert appraisals, documentation of property damage, or other factors that may impact the value of your property. The burden of proof lies with the property owner, so gathering and presenting persuasive evidence to support your case is essential.

Have more questions about how property tax appeals could positively impact you?

Crucially, this overview of appealing property assessment values does not begin to cover all the laws implicated by this issue or the factors that may compel the application of such laws. Every case is unique, and the laws can produce different outcomes depending on the individual circumstances.

Jimerson Birr attorneys guide our clients to help make informed decisions while ensuring their rights are respected and protected. Our lawyers are highly trained and experienced in the nuances of the law, so they can accurately interpret statutes and case law and holistically prepare individuals or companies for their legal endeavors. Through this intense personal investment and advocacy, our lawyers will help resolve the issue’s complicated legal problems efficiently and effectively.

Having a Jimerson Birr attorney on your side means securing a team of seasoned, multi-dimensional, cross-functional legal professionals. Whether it is a transaction, an operational issue, a regulatory challenge, or a contested legal predicament that may require court intervention, we remain tireless advocates at every step. Being a value-added law firm means putting the client at the forefront of everything we do. We use our experience to help our clients navigate even the most complex problems and come out the other side triumphant.

If you want to understand your case, the merits of your claim or defense, potential monetary awards, or the amount of exposure you face, you should speak with a qualified Jimerson Birr lawyer. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to help. Call Jimerson Birr at (904) 389-0050 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation.