Appeal Process
Evaluation Process
In order to get started, North Star will evaluate the likelihood of success of reducing your property assessment by reviewing your current assessment and recent property sales data for similar properties in your geographic area. Based on that evaluation, we will provide you with an estimated annual tax savings. Assuming North Star recommends that you file an assessment appeal and you agree to hire us, we will begin the process of generating the evidence and application necessary to win your appeal.
Evidence Process
To be successful, an Appraisal Report or a Fair Market Value Report is required. Most counties will accept a Fair Market Value Report that is generated by North Star Tax Appeals. If an appraisal is required by the county, we will notify you at the time of initial phone call and recommend an experienced PA certified appraiser. If you have a recent appraisal report (e.g., from a purchase or refinance), that appraisal report may be sufficient for your appeal.
Application and Oral Hearing
Each county requires a property owner to file an application to initiate an assessment appeal. North Star will draft the application and timely file it with your county’s assessment office. Most counties require the property owner or the property owner’s representative to attend an oral hearing to present the evidence. We will hire an attorney to attend your oral hearing. Anita D’Amico, our in-house attorney, will determine if her law office (D’Amico Law) or if another law office is best suited for maximizing your tax savings. The consultation fee that you pay North Star after a successful appeal includes the attorney’s fee.