The Injustice of Property Taxes and Why You Must Fight Back
Texas ranks among the states with highest property tax rates in the United States. Texas does not have a state income tax, so it relies more heavily on property taxes to fund government operations.
Property taxes in Texas are not a tax on net worth, it’s a tax on gross worth. When you walk outside, just about everything your eyes see is taxed at an average of 2- 3% of its current value. Property tax rates can also vary within the state based on the tax rates of different counties, cities, and school districts.
Commercial property has no cap. The Appraisal Districts can raise the value with just a few weeks warning and much faster than an owner or landlord can raise rents to compensate for it.
Property taxes are the highest fixed line item cost for many owners and landlords on their P&L statements.
Protect Your Property
While even homestead property values cannot be raised more than 10% per year, if you allow the Appraisal District to raise the value of your property by 10% per year without protest, the amount of property tax you pay will double Every 7.5 years.
Whether commercial or residential the goal should be to keep any property value increases to be in line with the published rate of inflation which typically has been much less than what the appraisal districts want to argue has been the increase in value of your property, or reduce the value if a condition has negatively affected the value.
The State of Taxes
The Property Tax Code is written heavily in favor of the State giving it the power to set an arbitrary value on your property, impose the tax, then sell your property if you don’t pay the tax. There are a few defenses that you can fight back with, but you have to know what those are, and assert them with evidence backing it up.
Arbitrary Value Increases
Property value assessment increases by appraisal districts are never-ending even when there is no or dubious market justification for it. This places financial stress on commercial property owners and homeowners alike.
The Informal Conference
When you protest your property value you first have an informal meeting with an assistant appraiser. In times past you could explain your position and the front line appraiser had substantial discretion to resolve the case. However, in recent times, that has changed with the front line appraiser’s negotiating room tightened so much, making it difficult to resolve the case.
Asset Rich, Cash Flow Poor? – Forced to Sell
When a property tax bill soars to staggering heights, they practically force out property owners, who have invested their hearts and souls into their offices, productive land and homes. This sad reality affects families, communities, and our sense of stability and justice. Why is that?
The Formal Hearing
Your next encounter is with an Appraisal Review Board which is a group of 3 individuals who are appointed, trained and paid by the County Appraisal District and who are not elected officials. Assuming you are given sufficient time to present your case and not pushed to hurry your presentation, and actually got the time to put on your case, you will then be amazed at the voting pattern. One of them will find the same value as the assistant appraiser who just testified for the County Appraisal District, another one will be just below and the third will be just above, so the average turns out to be the Chief Appraiser’s value.
The Appraisal Review Board
Many times they will show no regard for your property rights, fairness, or doing what’s right. We had an unfortunate fire in my residence that made our home charred and unihabitable and we were fighting the insurance company to replace, not just paint over the burned parts of the home. When I presented my argument for a big discount because of its present state of ruin, one of the ARB members actually asked me “ Did your swimming pool catch fire too”?
Where Did They Get that From?
We have also had cases where taxing authorities assessed a value for so called buildings that did not exist, other cases where individuals got sued for property they did not own, or received tax bills where they could not tell whether it was their property or someone else’s property they were getting tax billed for.
If you are not adequately prepared to fight this system, you face the ultimate weapon which is the confiscation and sale of your property.
Defend Your Property. Defend your rights. Choose Makris Law Firm as Your Partner in this Battle.
“How can I fight back against this ruthless taxation of my property by a government agency with unlimited resources?”
The answer is simple: expert legal representation.
Makris Law Firm Property Tax Reviews
Your Advocate for Texas Property Tax Disputes
Why Choose Us?
Extensive Legal Knowledge: With 45 years in law and litigation we have a deep understanding of the Texas property tax system, and its intricacies.
Personalized Approach
We believe that every client is unique and deserves individual attention. We take the time to listen to your concerns, assess your situation, and develop a specific legal strategy that suits the needs of your case, with success as our top priority.
Proven Track Record
Our firm has successfully resolved a very substantial number of contested property tax disputes in state district courts across Texas. We have a track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, obtaining refunds, and saving them thousands of dollars in property taxes.
Effective Negotiation
While we are prepared to go to court if necessary, we understand the value of negotiation and dispute resolution. We strive to find amicable solutions to save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. We explore all avenues to reach a favorable settlement.
Communications
Throughout the legal process, we address any questions or concerns you may have.
Comprehensive Services
Whether you are a commercial property owner, real estate investor, or homeowner, we handle a wide range of property tax disputes. From assessment appeals to exemptions and valuation challenges, we have the expertise to navigate the complex legal procedures required.
Our Areas of Expertise
Our seasoned legal team fights for your rights, so you are not left to bear the burden of unfair property taxes without a fair fight. We are not just your attorneys; we are your partners in this battle against unjust property taxes so that your voice is heard and your property treated fairly.
Ready to take control of your property tax situation?
Contact us today for a consultation.
During the initial meeting, we can assess your case, explain your legal options, and provide you with a clear understanding of how we can help you resolve your property tax dispute.
We offer flexible appointment scheduling and media formats to accommodate your needs.
