How do i get my assessement lowered? My taxes are 8,600.00 a year.

Your taxes are based on the assessed market value of the property and a fixed uniform established taxing rate. If you feel that your taxes are too high, in part, based on the assessed value (other similar properties taxed at a lower rate, similar nearby properties selling for less than assessed value etc.) you need to file an assessment appeal at your county Board of Assessment Appeal office.  Every county has their own procedures including filing deadlines for filing appeals for the next taxable year.  Typically, for the next taxable year, you need to file an appeal by August 1 (sometimes September 1).  You should check with an attorney in your county and/or the county office which handles assessment appeals and ascertain when the filing deadline is.  If you miss the deadline, it will be too late to file an appeal. You also need to check with the assessment appeal office or an attorney about what is needed. There is usually a brief form which needs to be completed and filed. There is also "evidence" which needs to be submitted in support of your appeal prior to the hearing. At the hearing you need to show your "evidence". A property owner should introduce evidence of the market value of the property appealed. This can be done by presenting an appraisal or evidence of current actual sales of similar homes. You may also appeal an assessment on the basis of uniformity by presenting recent sales of comparable properties but a comparison of assessments alone is not sufficient. You must present documentation at the hearing that proves these recently-sold properties are similar in style, size, location and amenities. Bringing pictures to the hearing would be very helpful in proving. I hope this provides some helpful information.  Please consider this preliminary guidance and do seek the advice of a local attorney and/or the county office of appeals who is more familiar with any specific requiements of your county. Marla D. Sones www.lslaw.com