Episode Summary:
Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast, your go-to show for real estate success. In Episode 82, the host sits down with Mickey Le of Ad Valorem Tax Management to discuss the highly anticipated spring property appraisal season.
Mickey shares his industry expertise on how homeowners and real estate professionals can successfully contest their county's assessed market values to significantly reduce their property tax burdens. If you are tired of overpaying on your property taxes and want to learn the insider secrets to fighting back, this episode is a must-listen!
In this episode, you will learn:
✔️ The Importance of Highlighting Hidden Property Flaws: The county appraisal district often relies on surface-level data like satellite images and permits. You will learn why it is crucial to tell the "story" of your home by pointing out specific, hidden issues—such as foundation problems, a bad roof, lack of remodeling, or mold—to lower your home's market value.
✔️ The Critical January 1st Valuation Date: In Texas, property tax law dictates that your home is appraised based strictly on its condition as of January 1st. You will learn how this rule impacts your taxes, even in extreme cases where a home is destroyed shortly after the new year begins.
✔️ The Protest Timeline and the Advantage of Filing Early: The episode outlines the tax protest process, from the informal meeting to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). You will learn that the Texas filing deadline is May 15th, and why submitting your protest early in the season can result in a better hearing experience before the county gets stressed and overwhelmed.
✔️ How Tax Consultants Charge for Their Services: You will learn the difference between market value and taxable value (which includes exemptions like homestead or over-65). If you hire a professional like Mickey Le, they typically take care of the entire process and charge a percentage fee based only on the actual tax dollars they save you.
Connect with Mickey Le: You can reach Mickey Le at his Houston-based company, Ad Valorem Tax Management, through the following channels:
- Phone: 713-977-4197
- Email: mle@atmtax.com
Listen to the full episode now:
https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen
