Taxes are based on the most recent transfer price of the property. This system has HUGE inequities in the tax burden for homeowners.

If you purchased your home more than 5 years ago, you have a very low annual real estate tax. If you purchased your property during the height of the property appreciation, you have annual taxes that are well above the current valuation.

You should obtain a current appraisal from a qualified Pinellas or Hillsborough County Appraiser who has experience in property tax disputes, if you have purchased your property in the past 5 years.

The tips for choosing an appraiser, is to check for professional designations, indicating that they have extended education and qualifications. The best place to check for professional designation is the Appraisal Institute. It is suggested that the homeowner look for an appraiser with either the SRPA or SRA designation. Both are residential property specialists. The Appraisal Institute can be found at appraisalinstitute dot org

In preparation for the appraisers inspection of the property, the homeowner should have their current mortgage survey handy for the Pinellas Appraiser to look at and a list of recent renovation or remodeling completed. It is best to use those items completed in the past 3 years.

Shop for your appraiser based on experience. Never shop based only on fee. In the appraisal business, qualifications and experience will serve you well in your appraisal requirements.

Marten W. Davis, SRPA PinellasAppraiser