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Considering current depressed property values in the Pinellas County Florida Area, it is prudent for the homeowner who has purchased his property within the past 36 months to obtain a current Market Value Appraisal of His/Her property from a Highly Qualified Pinellas County Appraiser.

Taxes are based on the most recent transfer price of the property. This system has HUGE inequities in the tax burden for homeowners.

The people who purchased their home more than 5 years ago, have a very low annual real estate tax. Those who purchased their property during the height of the property appreciation have annual taxes that are well above the current valuation.

A current appraisal from a qualified appraiser, should be purchased from a Pinellas or Hillsborough County Appraiser, who has experience in property tax disputes.

The tips for choosing an appraiser, is to check for professional designations, indicating that they have extended education and qualifications. The best place to check for professional designation is the Appraisal Institute. It is suggested that the homeowner look for an appraiser with either the SRPA or SRA designation. Both are residential property specialists. The Appraisal Institute can be found at appraisalinstitute dot org

In preparation for the appraisers inspection of the property, the homeowner should have their current mortgage survey handy for the Pinellas Appraiser to look at and a list of recent renovation or remodeling completed. It is best to use those items completed in the past 3 years.

It is dangerous to shop for an appraisal based on the fee quoted. Shop for your appraiser based on experience. In the appraisal business, qualifications and experience will serve you well in your appraisal requirements. A fee that is $25 higher may save you a lot of problems in the process.

Marten W. Davis, SRPA Gulf to Bay Appraisals