Texas Property Tax Protest Hearing | How to Prepare & Win.

How to Prepare for Your Texas Property Tax Protest Hearing

If you’ve filed a property tax protest in Texas, the next step is preparing for your Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing. This is your opportunity to present evidence and argue why your property’s assessed value should be lowered, ultimately reducing your tax bill.

While the process may seem overwhelming, a well-prepared case can save you thousands. Here’s everything you need to know to maximize your chances of success at your Texas tax protest hearing.

Step 1: Understand How the ARB Hearing Works

The Appraisal Review Board (ARB) is an independent panel that reviews property tax disputes. Your hearing can be:
✅ Informal Hearing – A meeting with a county appraiser to negotiate a lower valuation.
✅ Formal ARB Hearing – If no agreement is reached, your case is heard before a panel of ARB members who will make a final decision.

Step 2: Gather Strong Evidence to Support Your Case

To successfully reduce your property tax assessment, you need solid evidence that your home is overvalued. Here’s what to prepare:

✅ Comparable Property Sales (Market Comparisons)

• Find similar properties in your neighborhood that sold for less than your assessed value.

• Look for recent sales within the past 12 months.

✅ Appraisal Reports

• If you’ve had a private appraisal done, bring the report to support your claim.

✅ Photos & Documentation of Property Condition

• If your home has damage, foundation issues, or deferred maintenance, take photos and document repair costs.

• Homes in poor condition may be valued higher than they should be.

✅ Rental Income Data (For Investment Properties & Short-Term Rentals)

• If your home is a rental or Airbnb, show proof of lost income, vacancies, or declining rental rates.

• Lower rental income = lower property value.

✅ Incorrect County Data (Errors in Your Property Record)

• Check your tax assessment notice for mistakes, such as:

  • Wrong square footage

  • Incorrect property features (bedrooms, pools, renovations, etc.)

  • Misclassified property type

📌 Tip: You can request a copy of the county’s evidence file before your hearing to see how they calculated your value.

Step 3: Practice Your Argument & Stay Professional

A clear, concise argument improves your chances of success. Follow these tips:

✅ Stick to the Facts – Focus on market value, property condition, and comparable sales.
✅ Keep It Professional – ARB hearings are formal proceedings; avoid emotional arguments.
✅ Anticipate the County’s Argument – Be prepared to counter their evidence with better data.

📌 Tip: If you’re uncomfortable presenting your case, hiring a property tax consultant can take the stress off your shoulders.

Step 4: Know Your Rights & Next Steps

• If You Win: Your property taxes are lowered for the year! 🎉

• If You Lose: You may still have options, such as filing a judicial appeal or arbitration.

📅 Remember: The deadline to file your Texas property tax protest is May 15 in most counties.

📞 Need help preparing for your hearing? Contact Texas Tax Appeal today!