Think your property tax bill is too high? A “Sample Letter To Assessor To Lower Property Taxes” can help. Use it to formally ask your assessor for a review. Maybe your home’s value has dropped. Perhaps there are errors in your property details.
This article is for you if you need to write that letter. We know it can be daunting! Don’t worry.
We will share sample letters you can use. Tweak them to fit your needs. Make writing your letter easy!
Sample Letter To Assessor To Lower Property Taxes
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Assessor’s Name]
[Assessor’s Title]
[Assessor’s Office Address]
[Assessor’s Office City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request for Reassessment of Property Taxes – [Your Property Address]
Dear [Assessor’s Name],
I am writing to request a reassessment of the property taxes for my property located at [Your Property Address]. The current assessed value of my property is [Current Assessed Value]. I believe this valuation is higher than the fair market value.
Recently, similar properties in my neighborhood have sold for considerably less than my current assessed value. For example, the property at [Address of Comparable Property 1] sold for [Sale Price of Comparable Property 1] on [Date of Sale of Comparable Property 1]. Another property at [Address of Comparable Property 2] sold for [Sale Price of Comparable Property 2] on [Date of Sale of Comparable Property 2].
In addition to comparable sales, there are other factors that negatively affect my property’s value. [Describe any issues such as needed repairs, property damage, or neighborhood issues].
I have attached copies of the sales information for the comparable properties and documentation of the issues affecting my property’s value for your review.
I kindly request that you review my assessment and consider lowering my property taxes to reflect the current market value. I am available to discuss this matter further at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Sample Letter To Assessor To Lower Property Taxes
1. Crafting a Compelling Subject Line
The subject line is your initial gambit. It must be concise and immediately signal your intent. Don’t obfuscate; clarity reigns supreme here.
- Example: “Property Tax Reassessment Request – [Your Property Address]”
- Alternative: “Formal Appeal: Property Tax Assessment – [Your Parcel Number]”
2. The Salutation: Setting a Respectful Tone
Begin with appropriate deference. Avoid excessive familiarity, yet steer clear of being overly stilted. A measured approach is paramount.
- Preferred: “Dear Assessor [Assessor’s Last Name],”
- Acceptable: “To Whom It May Concern,” (If the assessor’s name is unknown)
3. Introduction: Stating Your Purpose with Finesse
Articulate the letter’s raison d’être immediately. Ambiguity serves no purpose; be forthright about your dissatisfaction with the current assessment.
- “I am writing to formally contest the current property tax assessment for my property located at [Your Property Address], Parcel Number [Your Parcel Number].”
- “This letter constitutes a formal request for a reassessment of the property taxes levied on my residence at [Your Property Address], due to [brief reason, e.g., recent comparable sales].”
4. The Body: Substantiating Your Claim with Evidence
This is where you furnish the assessor with irrefutable evidence. Avoid hyperbole; present a rational, fact-based argument. Use verifiable data to bolster your position.
- Comparable Sales: “Recent sales of comparable properties in my neighborhood indicate a lower market value. For example, the property at [Address] sold for [Price] on [Date], and the property at [Address] sold for [Price] on [Date].” Include details about the properties to showcase comparability.
- Property Defects: “My property has several deficiencies that detract from its value. These include [List defects, e.g., a leaky roof, outdated plumbing, structural issues]. I have attached photographs and professional assessments as corroboration.”
- Economic Downturn: “The local economic climate has adversely affected property values in this area. Provide any relevant economic data or reports.”
5. Conciseness and Clarity: The Hallmark of Persuasion
Brevity is the soul of wit, and also of effective communication. Pare down your language to its essence. Eliminate superfluous verbiage.
- Keep sentences succinct and to the point.
- Use bullet points or numbered lists to organize information.
- Avoid emotional appeals; stick to factual data.
6. Requesting Action: A Call to Reassessment
Explicitly state what you desire. Do not leave the assessor to infer your intentions. A clear request for reassessment is crucial.
- “I respectfully request that you reassess my property’s value based on the aforementioned evidence.”
- “I urge you to consider the information provided and grant a reduction in my property tax assessment.”
7. Closing: Expressing Gratitude and Anticipating a Response
End on a courteous note. Express appreciation for the assessor’s time and consideration. Indicate your willingness to cooperate further.
- “Thank you for your time and consideration of this matter. I am available to provide any further information you may require. I look forward to your prompt response.”
- Use a formal closing: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name and contact information (phone number and email address).
Frequently Asked Questions: Appealing Your Property Tax Assessment
Understand the process of appealing your property tax assessment with clarity. This section addresses common inquiries to help you navigate your appeal effectively.
1. When should I send a letter to the assessor?
You should send your appeal letter as soon as possible after receiving your property tax assessment notice, typically within the timeframe specified by your local jurisdiction.
2. What information should I include in my appeal letter?
Include your name, property address, parcel number, a clear statement of your opinion of value, and supporting evidence such as comparable sales data or photos of property defects.
3. What kind of evidence supports a lower property valuation?
Evidence includes comparable sales of similar properties in your area, professional appraisals, photographs detailing damage or disrepair, and documentation of neighborhood issues that negatively impact property values.
4. How do I find comparable sales data for my area?
Comparable sales data can often be found through online real estate databases, county assessor’s websites, or by consulting with a real estate professional or appraiser.
5. What happens after I submit my appeal letter?
The assessor will review your appeal and supporting documentation. You may be contacted for additional information or to schedule an informal meeting to discuss your concerns. You will receive a written decision regarding your appeal.
