This is a very simple question to answerbecause they are handling your property taxes!

Errors happen because there is a substantial amount of assessments and so many houses to value! Simply keep in mind the Assessor’s Office is a mass assessment organization and they may not always have the time or the employees to make sure all assessments are perfect. When a mistake|an error in your building information or a value is higher than than what it should or could be, generally it’s not personal.

The personnel of the Assessor can make your life extremely simple and they can also make it frustrating. If you’re a pain to deal with, no one will want to help you, even if the mistake is the Assessors mistake. The personnel do not like being treated as individuals who are out to screw you, because they arent. The employees are unaffected by how much you pay in property taxes, or your records and values, so be kind. Be an individual they want to assist so that you can get the most of how they can help. Remember, even if the person you are speaking with can’t help you, most likely they know the individual who can and have influence with that person.

While I was an employee of the Assessor there were front doors closed in my face, I was screamed at by homeowners. At times I was treated like I had no knowledge of assessments or appraisal and I wasn’t excited about to assist people who dealt with me like that. Part of myposition to help them, to be a civil servant. In spite of that fact, after working for years in a place where the taxpayers resented me every day and the job I did it was very taxing. Always keep in mind, the Assessor himself is a person and the employees are human beings and they have been treated poorly for years. They are yelled at everyday and most of the staff work there for years.

Picture what its like to work in an environment for years where your customers hate you! Its not good! Dont be one more taxpayer they add to that list! The employees you deal with who work for the Office of the Assessor, handle and influence your assessment, always keep that in mind! They have worked with thousands of property owners and can read you like a book, so be nice and patient and realize they are not out to get you. The staff of the Assessor, are doing their jobs. Being difficult will not get you what you are looking for. You may be surprised at what being patient will get you.

About the Author: Valerie Faltas, Property Tax Expert worked in assessments for years, is a Certified Property Tax Appraiser, Licensed Residential Appraiser and a member of the International Association of Assessment Officers. As a real estate investor and advisor she is well versed in all aspects of real estate. To contact Valerie Faltas go to her website: www.propertytaxlittleblackbook.com