Can Ohio Homeowners Challenge Unfair Property Tax Assessments?

One major cost faced by many Ohio residents when owning property is the amount of their property taxes. In most cases, the assessed value of the property is used to calculate how much the homeowner pays in property taxes. However, while in most cases the assessment will give an accurate figure, it is possible that the assessed value of your property could exceed the actual market value. Thankfully, there is a way to contest such an assessment.

How property tax assessments work in Ohio 

The county auditor is responsible for determining the taxable value of the land. This process uses several criteria, including the current sales figures, the physical properties of the land, and the prevailing market trends. Property values change over time depending on real estate market trends.

Sometimes, the valuation process is not always accurate. A valuation process may produce a figure that is too high due to several reasons.

Signs your assessment may be too high 

Over-assessment of your property will lead to higher taxes. Some of the situations where you should reconsider your property assessment include:

• If the assessed value of your home is much higher compared to other recently sold homes of a similar nature
• The information on your property is wrong according to the county, such as the square footage of your property
• Damage to your property that lowers the value of your property
• If the assessments of your neighbors’ property are significantly lower than yours

Checking your property record card against other properties can help decide if your property has been assessed correctly.

The Ohio appeal process 

In Ohio, a homeowner can dispute the value placed on their property by filing a complaint with the county Board of Revision. These complaints are normally filed within the time set aside each year for that purpose according to state laws. A missed filing deadline could prevent you from appealing the value of your property.

Evidence is crucial. Examples include:

• Appraisal done recently
• Sales price of similar homes
• Photographs showing property condition
• Repair estimate/reports
• Documentation of the fair market value of the property

Based on the evidence provided, the Board of Revision can decide to either affirm, lower, or even raise the assessed property value.

How legal representation could help 

While some homeowners manage to appeal on their own, there are times when valuing a home may not be easy because of the amount of money involved.

In such cases, a lawyer can assist in collecting evidence, pointing out flaws in the county’s assessment, drafting arguments, and representing the homeowner during hearings. In some cases, an appeal may be possible after the Board of Revision makes its decision.

Lawyer assistance can be useful when the valuation issue involves commercial properties or real estate investments.

Talk to an Ohio Real Estate Lawyer Today 

Kohl & Cook Law Firm, LLC, represents the interests of Ohio residents who need to reassess their property. Call our Columbus real estate lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin drafting your arguments right away.