The Three Cs of Getting the Best Property Tax Advisors in Atlanta

Posted by Jill Noelle Olandria on Apr 5, 2017 11:30:00 AM

Getting the best property tax advisors in Atlanta should be given careful thought considering their valuable roles in the achievement of your property management goals. Start by comparing their credentials, follow with choosing from among them, and begin the professional relationship. Here’s the three Cs that you can keep in mind in doing so.

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Comparing the Advisors

Of course, you have to compare the professional credentials of the property tax advisors being considered since these are the foundation for their performance. These credentials should include their education, training and work experience, which can include employment as county tax assessors and appraisers.

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But these professional credentials are just the basics of your comparisons. You must also consider these metrics in choosing from among the best property tax advisors in Atlanta. 

  • The average tax savings achieved by the tax advisors for their clients. But don’t be impressed by the total amount presented because these must be analyzed based on a relative measurement.

First, look at the tax savings in relation to the potential taxes. You may be impressed by the $1 million average tax savings. But if it’s just 5% of the potential tax savings, then the maximum tax savings aren’t being achieved.

Second, consider the final tax savings achieved by the tax advisors in comparison with the target savings. You will want close to a 100% achievement rate in your own case, if you want to file an appeal.

  • The prompt completion of the property assessment appeals. You don’t want a drawn-out appeal for various reasons, such as any increase in compensation for the tax advisors. You don’t want to wait for refunds either.

Basically, the best property tax advisors in Atlanta should have a track record of implementing effective, efficient and responsive appeals on behalf of their clients. 

Choosing From Among the Consultants

The next step is the evaluation of all their professional performance and ethics, among others. You may hire just one property tax advisor or hire the services of a firm of property tax advisors.

A few tips to consider in this matter:

  • Consider the work experience, which should include the experience in the jurisdiction, in the industry, and with the asset types. You may, for example, want tax advisors well-versed in the State of Georgia’s property tax laws.
  • Determine whether the tax advisors’ professional goals, work ethic, and personal approach are suitable for your own needs and wants. You have to work with the tax advisors so it makes sense to ensure that you can work well with them.
  • Consider the abovementioned comparison metrics.
  • Determine the suitability of the tax advisors’ professional fees. You will get what you pay for, as is the case for professional services rendered.

You should avoid making impulse decisions even when your gut instinct tells you otherwise. This is a crucial decision so careful thought is a must. 

Compensating the Advisors

Be sure to agree about the compensation for the property tax advisors before signing the contract. In general, the business adopts a performance-based or contingency fee arrangement for commercial properties. This means that the client will not pay the tax advisors’ fees until the agreed results are achieved, although terms and conditions do apply. Residential services may contain a contingent fee but often also include an upfront fee because tax savings are typically lower than on large commercial properties.

Conclusion

When you have chosen the best property tax advisors in Atlanta, you should work with them to achieve your property tax management goals. You will then get the best value for your money.

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