When a property owner in Georgia appeals a tax assessment, he or she should be aware of the options available. If an appeal is not resolved with the assessor, it will normally be scheduled for a hearing before the county Board of Equalization. However, the owner has the option of demanding arbitration rather than going to the BOE. This must be done when the initial appeal is filed.
Arbitration is overseen by a court-appointed referee and there are three arbitrators. One is appointed by the taxpayer, one is appointed by the Board of Assessors and the third is chosen by the other two. Arbitrators must be licensed real estate appraisers.
Even though arbitration is the more expensive option, it is strongly recommended, especially for valuable, sophisticated properties. Boards of Equalization rarely have the training necessary to deal properly with such properties. Either party may appeal from the arbitrators ' award.
D. Kent Beals
Ragsdale, Beals, Hooper & Seigler LLP
[email protected]
American Property Tax Counsel (APTC)
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