Texas Insider

Comptroller’s Videos Offer Property Owners Tips To Appeal Appraisals

(AUSTIN) — Property owners who believe their county appraisal district has overestimated the value of their homes or businesses have a right to appeal to their local Appraisal Review Board (ARB) to reduce their property values.

Two video presentations on Texas Comptroller Susan Combs’ website inform homeowners and small business owners about protest procedures, what to expect during an ARB hearing and how to make an effective presentation to the ARB.

“For a successful appeal, a property owner must be prepared to present well-organized, clear and convincing evidence to persuade the ARB that a particular home or business has a lower value than the value placed by the appraisal district,” Combs said. “Our videos also explain how property owners can protect their right to appeal in court if they disagree with the ARB’s decision.”

The Comptroller’s video, How to Present Your Case at an Appraisal Review Board Hearing, A Guide for Homeowners, can be found online at http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/homeprotestvid/player.html. How to Present Your Case at an Appraisal Review Board Hearing, A Guide for Small Business Owners is located at http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/businessprotestvid/player.html. The Comptroller’s property tax Web page at http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/ also includes much more information about local property taxes.

Most ARBs schedule property value protest hearings in May, June or July, except in certain major urban areas, where hearings occur year round.