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Contesting Property Taxes: How to Protect Your Investment

Updated: Apr 16



Property taxes are a significant expense for homeowners and investors, but did you know that you have the right to challenge your tax appraisal value? Whether you feel your property's appraised value is too high or there are errors in the appraisal records, taking steps to contest your property taxes can lead to significant savings.

Here’s how you can exercise your rights as a taxpayer and how Maverick Appraisals can support you in building a strong case.


Understanding Your Right to Protest

One of the most important rights you have as a property owner is the ability to protest your tax appraisal value to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The ARB is responsible for hearing disputes and determining whether the appraisal district’s valuation of your property is fair and accurate.

If the ARB’s decision doesn’t resolve your concerns, you also have the option to appeal their ruling to the state district court in the county where your property is located. This multi-step process ensures that you have several opportunities to present your case and correct inaccuracies.


How to File a Protest

To initiate the process, you’ll need to complete Form 50-132, Notice of Protest, and submit it to the ARB. Common reasons for filing a protest include:


  • Overvaluation of your property.


  • Incorrect property characteristics in the appraisal record (e.g., wrong square footage, outdated condition assessments).


  • Discrepancies in comparable sales data used to calculate your property’s value.


Once your protest is filed, you’ll receive a written notice outlining the date, time, and location for a formal ARB hearing. Before the hearing, you can also request an informal conference with your local appraisal district. This meeting allows you to present your concerns and potentially resolve the dispute without needing to proceed to the ARB hearing.


Why Evidence is Crucial

The success of your protest hinges on the quality and strength of the evidence you provide. Your goal is to demonstrate that the appraised value of your property is inaccurate or inconsistent with similar properties in your area. Examples of compelling evidence include:


  • A professional, third-party appraisal report showing your property’s fair market value.


  • Photographs and documentation of any issues that may affect the value, such as structural damage or outdated features.


  • Sales data for comparable properties in your neighborhood.


Without solid evidence, your chances of reducing your tax burden are slim.


How Maverick Appraisals Can Help

This is where Maverick Appraisals comes in. Our team specializes in providing detailed, data-driven appraisal reports that can strengthen your protest. We use accurate market data and professional expertise to ensure your property is fairly valued.

By partnering with Maverick Appraisals, you’ll benefit from:


  • Accurate Property Valuations: A professional appraisal ensures your evidence is credible and persuasive.


  • Clear Documentation: We create reports that are easy to understand and compelling for ARB members.


  • Expert Support: We guide you through the process, ensuring you’re prepared for both informal discussions and formal hearings.


Take Control of Your Property Taxes Today

Don’t settle for an inflated tax bill when you have the right to contest it. With the right evidence and guidance, you can ensure your property is appraised fairly and potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.


📞 Call us at (210) 970-9566


Protect your investment, lower your tax burden, and gain peace of mind—let Maverick Appraisals be your trusted partner in property tax contestation.


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