How do Assessment Appeals work?

California property owners are assessed on an annual basis (you usually receive your property assessment between July and September) for the current Fiscal Year.  We are currently accepting appeals for the 2010-2011 fiscal year period which begins July 1, 2010 and has a lien (value) date of January 1, 2010.

What is required of me in this process?

When you sign the authorization for Bankers Appraisal to represent you, your obligations are done. You do nothing and the responsibility becomes ours.  We do everything from filing the application to preparing value support such as Sales Comparison, Regression Analysis, Cost and Income Analysis, to presenting the case before the board on your behalf. 

 
What about firms that charge up-front fees to file my appeal?

Keep in mind, you get what you pay for.  Many advanced-fee firms will file your claim for an up-front fee.  Here is the problem:  Many of these organizations collect the fee and either file your claim and disappear, or they file your claim and accept a “token” reduction.  They have no incentive to fight for a reduced value since they’ve already been paid.  Never pay any firm in advance to reduce your assessment!
 
What type of properties do you represent?

We represent commercial properties of all types.  Our client base includes many attorneys and accountants. We represent their personal real property as well as many of their clients’ properties.

OK, when I sign-up... what happens next?

We will send you the necessary forms to be signed, and upon return, we file your application with the County and forward copies to you.  California counties have up to two years to resolve your appeal, but most process appeals within 6 months.  The sooner we file on your behalf, the quicker any refund will be sent. 

Who is Bankers Appraisal?

Bankers Appraisal has been appealing property tax values for a long time.  Our expertise and hard work has saved property owners millions of dollars in tax refunds.  Bankers Appraisal was originally formed in 1989 as a fee appraisal business, performing typical residential, commercial and industrial appraisal reports.  In 1993, numerous requests were received to represent property owners in assessment appeals.  We have since devoted 100% of our efforts exclusively toward representing owners in assessment appeal matters.  We represent the smallest & largest of all property types throughout California. 

I have an income property.  How does this affect the appeal?

If your property is leased to another party, we may require additional information specific to that lease.  Remember: we represent you and all information is confidential.

I have information as to property value declines in my area.  Why can’t I file an appeal myself?

You may absolutely file an appeal on your own behalf…. The problem is: Many property owners are called to attend the appeals hearing and are either unprepared or completely intimidated by the proceedings.  The appeals hearing may require valuation support such as: Sales Comparison, Regression Analysis, Cost and Income Analysis, etc.  Bankers Appraisal is always prepared to address any such issues.

What if I've already filed a Prop. 8 with the Assessor or an Assessment Appeal with the Appeals Board?  Will you still be able to take it over for me?

Absolutely.  We will need to acquire from you a signed Agent's Authorization form.  We will then notify the Appeals Board as well as the Assessor of our representation on your behalf.

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