Washington State Property Tax

How Do I Get Comparable Sales Data To Appeal My Assessment?

You can get comparable sales information from records at the county assessor’s office, realtors, or title companies. You should use property sales that are most comparable to your property and which are sold closest to the assessment or appraisal of your property. The best comparisons are those where you have data on both properties side by side: for each sale comparison, make sure to include the parcel number (if applicable), date of the sale price, as well as any other factors important in making an accurate determination such as square footage and lot size; always be mindful not only about comparables but also differences between them when comparing values!

 

Comparative Factors For Land

  • Location
  • Size
    • Acreage
    • Road Frontage
    • Water Frontage
    • Usable/buildable space
  • Views and Waterfront
  • Access to utilities
    • Sewer
    • Septic
    • Electric
    • Gas
    • Water
  • Access issues
  • Wetlands
  • Zoning classification and restrictions
  • Environmental contamination

Comparative Factors For Improvements and Buildings

  • Type of construction materials used
  • Architectural style
  • Square footage of the total living area, commercial area, garages, and outbuildings
  • Age
  • Number of stories
  • Types and quality of improvements
  • Building condition
  • Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
  • Fireplaces
  • Garages

Other Useful Evidence For Appealing Your Assessed Value

  • A map of the location of your property and those properties you are comparing it to.
  • Appraisals prepared by others of both your property and comparables if available.
  • Documentation by others identifying problems with your property.
  • Written estimates of the cost to repair your property.
  • Photographs