Frequently Asked Questions:

1.  What is your fee? 

Our one-time flat fee is $295 for a full-service representation that includes:

             An initial home valuation    

             Completing all necessary paperwork

             Provide all necessary comparable sales data to the Assessor

             Negotiate the final resolution of the appeal with the Assessor

             Attend a formal Hearing before the Assessment Appeals Board, if necessary.

To get started, simply go to the “Sign Me Up” page and fill in the required fields, or call us directly at (619) 283-3300 or (858) 541-2400.

2. How long does it take? 

In our experience we have clients that have received answers on appeals within 4-9 months.  On an appeal the county does have up to 2 years to make a decision on your case, but we have never seen a case take that long.  No matter how long it takes your refund will be retroactive from the date filed.

3.   What is required of me? 

Once we determine that you are eligible for a reduction, you would be asked to complete an agent authorization form.  We handle the rest, including all aspects of the appeal from the formal filing and appraisal work through the processing and hearing before the Assessment Appeals Board.  You are not required to be involved in the process.

4.   Will a property tax appeal affect my mortgage or my ability to refinance?
No.  It will not affect your mortgage or refinancing.  Refinancing is always based on the current value of your home at the time of the refinance.

5.   Do you use comparable sales (comps) from around the area? 

Yes.  A process is undertaken to determine the correct value for the property as of a given date. During the process an analysis is performed of the Subject and the comparable sales, with subjective dollar adjustments to account for differences.  A valuation write-up is prepared, substantiating the conclusions for presentation to the Appeals Board.

6.  Does anyone need to go into my home? 

No. Generally we do an exterior appraisal if the Assessor requests it, as does the Assessor. In other words, we do everything from the street.

7.   How does this effect an impound account?
When the reduction occurs your tax bill will be reduced and your lender will be notified with the results and the reduction information (refund).

8.  Doesn’t the County automatically reduce my taxes? 

In the majority of the counties without a property tax appeal, they do not. However, if they did a reduction the amounts would most likely not reflect the true value of your property.

9.  What if I decide to sell my property? 

A status change does not affect your eligibility for a refund.  Often, such events may assist in the assessment appeals case and allow tax savings for the portion of the tax year in which taxes have been paid –even if the property has been sold.

10.   OK, I want to hire California Tax Refunds. Should I still pay my property tax? 

YES!  We advise you always pay your current tax bill to avoid any penalties or late fees. Reductions and/or refunds may vary in the amount of time it takes to receive them. Pay your property taxes as usual as they become due.  You will receive a refund on paid property taxes for the current tax year.

11.   Will filing a property Tax Appeal affect my selling property? 

No. It will not affect your selling price.  The market value of your home is determined on the sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood.