Knowledge Base

Comparable sales are the foundation of most successful appeals. Understand how to find and present them effectively.

A no-jargon walkthrough of how assessments work, what informal appeal means, the general flow, and what success looks like—plus the 60-minute prep plan.

Pros and cons of starting informal, what to expect in each path, and when to escalate from one to the other.

Transparent talk about when assessors can raise your value during an appeal, how to minimize risk, and why most homeowners worry about this way more than they should.

How to tell whether land or improvements are driving your assessment and how to use that split to win a property tax appeal.

From 'Zillow is evidence' to 'home improvements raise taxes immediately,' we separate property tax folklore from useful facts.

The decision drivers homeowners can actually influence: credible comps, verifiable condition, and consistent story—plus what won't move the needle.

Avoid 'no standing' dismissals. Match the owner name on your appeal to the deed and show you have authority to sign.

Understand how Prop 8 temporary reductions work with Prop 13's 2% cap. Learn when to appeal, what evidence works, and how to calculate savings when market value drops below your factored base year value.

Complete guide to property tax appeals in California, including filing deadlines and getting started.