Arbitration

  • Only available to properties that qualify for a homestead exemption OR any property that is valued under $1 million.
  • Usually cost beneficial if a  $25,000 or more reduction in assessed value can be obtained.
  • Uses an Arbitrator who is a professional with real estate experience (Appraiser, Real Estate Agent, Accountant, Attorney, etc...) .
  • GRC will present the case to the arbitrator.
  • Results are binding and final.
  • There is no time limit for the meeting. 
  • The Texas State Comptroller requires a deposit of $500. $450 is refunded to the taxpayer if the arbitrator rules at a value closer to the taxpayer than the appraisal district. $50 is kept by the State Comptroller as an administrative fee. 
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Litigation

  • Available to any property. 
  • The cost benefit of going to lawsuit is determined on a case by case value due to the nature of the dispute. For what we call "lower degree"  disputes, we recommend at least $300,000 in assessed value be in dispute, for"higher degree"   disputes this could range from $500,000 the multimillions to be considered cost beneficial to purse litigation.
  • Must higher an attorney to file lawsuit and negotiate the value.
  • Attorney fees typically range in value from $1,000 to $6,000 for most cases, but can be higher for more complex cases.
  • Most cases are settled in prior to going to trial. 
  • Attorney fee are not automatically award to the prevailing side. 
  • There is no time limit for lawsuits, but the longer the suit, generally, the more expensive it becomes. 
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