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.
- (More)
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.
- (More)