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Publications | February 16, 2017
2 minute read

What You Need to Know About Appealing Your Property Tax Assessments

It’s that time of year, when property tax assessments arrive in your mailbox. If you should disagree with the assessment, know that you do have the right to appeal the assessor’s valuation of your property to the Michigan tax tribunal. Property owners who are serious about appealing their property tax assessments must be mindful of the process and will need to make a strong case to the tribunal in order to warrant a reduction.

It is important to be mindful of procedural requirements and filing deadlines. If a business wishes to contest their property tax assessment on commercial or industrial real property, then they must file an appeal with the tax tribunal no later than May 31. For a residential property, the owner must first protest the assessment before the local board of review – which meets in March – and then file a petition with the tax tribunal no later than July 31. Late petitions are not accepted.  

Because a property owner always bears the ultimate burden of persuading the tribunal that a reduction is warranted, the case will often boil down to whether the owner has presented credible and well-supported appraisal evidence. A credible appraisal will also enable property owners to negotiate more effectively with the taxing authority, as it can help persuade a reluctant assessor that a reduction is warranted.

For a more in-depth look at the tax appeal process and what you should know before approaching the tribunal, read my full article: Appealing property tax assessments requires attention to the details.

If you have any questions regarding tax assessments or other real estate matters, contact Tom Amon at 616.752.2727 or tamon@wnj.com.