FAQ's

Our Most Frequently Asked Questions:

Why Appeal, Why North Star?

Why should I hire you, I can appeal my taxes on my own?

We optimize results through our experience in handling over 1,500 appeals across multiple counties. Our combination of evaluation, customer service, and hearing representation is unmatched.

My taxes just go up every year, what is the benefit of appealing?

While the Common-Level-Ratio does fluctuate, having a lower Assessment means that you will be taxed at a lower rate.

What is your success rate?

We have successfully appealed over 1,500 appeal cases. We average a 21% reduction.

Have you done any appeals in my neighborhood?

We have done appeals in Montgomery, Dauphin, York, Bucks, Berks, Lancaster, and Chester counties.

My neighbor appealed and they didn’t receive a reduction.

All appeals are independent of each other.  Your neighbor might have been assessed differently than you.  They could have been ill prepared for the hearing or did not understand the process which led to an unsuccessful appeal.

Why should I appeal, I am planning on selling my house soon?

Getting  your property tax reduced is a great selling point.  It adds value to your home because lower taxes makes it more affordable for prospective buyers.

Appraisal, Evidence, Hearing

Why do I need an appraisal?

The burden of proof is on the property owner.  The appraisal proves the Fair Market Value of your home.  Most County Assessment Boards request an appraisal at the Appeal Hearing.

I can’t afford an appraisal.

An appraisal is an investment, that typically pays back 25 times in five years.

Do I have to attend the hearing?

Outside the initial phone call, North Star will handle all aspects of your Appeal. We will file all the necessary paperwork, prepare the evidence for the hearing, and attend the hearing on your behalf.

I am getting ready to pull a permit for an addition/deck etc. should I just wait?

Every jurisdiction handles permits differently.  Give us a call so we can discuss the best way to navigate your appeal.

Does the appraisal fee go directly to you?

No. If an appraisal is required, we will recommend appraisers that we trust in your specific area. That fee goes to them to provide an independent Fair Market Value of your home. 

How long is the process?

Every County has different time frames for when you can apply for an Assessment Appeal.  Typically these windows start in the Spring and end at the beginning of August.  After an application is submitted, County Assessment Boards will take a few weeks to process your application.  At that point you will receive a hearing date.  A few weeks after the hearing, the county will mail your Assessment Change Notice. 

After Final Assessment Change

When will I see the savings?

With an Annual Appeal you will see the savings the year following your appeal, and every year after that.  With an Interim Appeal (for New Construction homes) the savings is retroactive to the current year in which you Appeal.

Am I more likely to get a higher assessment next year if I appeal my taxes.

No, in Pennsylvania, that is called “Spot Assessing” and is not permitted.

Do I have to re-appeal my Assessment every year?

While home-owners can file an appeal every year, it is typically not necessary.  Give us a call to discuss your specific case.

Why do I have to pay you prior to receiving any savings?

We apply our fee after we get a result for our clients.  In Annual Appeals you will see the savings the year after you appeal.

Am I hurting the school district by appealing my taxes?

Your are paying your fair share in taxes, the millage will re-balance your savings more fairly among the other properties in your school district. 

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