Why Should I Be Nice When Dealing With The Assessor
The basic answer to this question is: they are processing your assessment! Be nice!
Mistakes happen because there is a substantial amount of assessments and so many houses to process! Always keep in mind the Assessor is a mass appraisal entity and they may not always have the time or the employees to ensure all values are what they should be. When a mistake|an error in your building information or a value is far above than what it should or could be, generally it’s not personal.
The employees of the Assessor can make your life extremely easy and they can also make it difficult. If you’re difficult to deal with, no one will want to help you, even if the error is the Assessors mistake. The employees do not like being treated as people who are out to screw you, because they arent. The personnel are not affected by how much you pay in property taxes, or your records and values, so be pleasant. Be someone they want to help so that you can get the most of how they can help. Remember, even if the person you are speaking with can’t assist you, most likely they know the individual who can and have influence with that person.
When I worked for the Assessor I had front doors slammed in my face, I had homeowners and business owners yell at me. I was also treated as if I had no knowledge of the law or even appraisal and I was definitely not excited about to assist those who dealt with me that way. It was my part ofjob to help them, to be the civil servant I was paid to be. After working for years in an environment where most of the taxpayers resented my position and the job I did it was very taxing. Remember, the Assessor is a person and the staff of the Assessor are people and they are tired of being yelled at! They get that all day long every day and most of the employees work there for years.
Imagine what its like to work in a place for years where your clients detest you! Its not pleasant! Dont be one more taxpayer they add to that list! The employees you encounter who work for the Assessor, handle and influence your property taxes, always keep that in mind! They have worked with thousands of taxpayers and can read you like a book, so be kind and patient and realize they are not out to get you. The staff of the Assessor’s Office, are doing their jobs. Being frustrating and antagonizing will not get you what you are looking for. You may be surprised at what being kind and patient will get you.
About the Author: Valerie Faltas, Property Tax Expert worked in assessments for years, is a Certified Property Tax Appraiser, Licensed Residential Appraiser and a member of the International Association of Assessment Officers. As a real estate investor and advisor she is well versed in all aspects of real estate. To contact Valerie Faltas go to her website: www.propertytaxlittleblackbook.com
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