How to Appeal Your Property Assessment in Des Moines, Iowa

As a homeowner in the Des Moines metro area, you may have recently received your property tax assessment and wondered if the value is accurate. If you believe your home has been over-assessed, you have the right to appeal. A successful appeal could lower your property taxes and ensure your home is valued fairly. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored specifically for homeowners in Des Moines and surrounding areas like Johnston, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, and Waukee.

Step 1: Review Your Property Assessment Notice

Each spring, county assessors in Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties send out property assessment notices. Review your assessment carefully, especially any value increases from the previous year. If the number seems too high or contains errors, you may have grounds for an appeal.

Step 2: Gather Local Market Evidence

To build a strong appeal, you’ll need evidence that supports your claim. Helpful documentation includes:

• Recent home sales in Des Moines or your specific neighborhood (I can provide you with comps!)
• A professional appraisal of your home
• Details on any property defects or necessary repairs that lower its value
• Errors in the assessment, such as incorrect square footage or missing exemptions

Step 3: Contact the Assessor’s Office for Your County

Before filing an appeal, reach out to the Polk County Assessor’s Office (or your respective county). They may adjust your valuation without a formal appeal if you can come to an agreement. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to file an official challenge.

Step 4: File an Appeal with the Board of Review

Homeowners in Des Moines and surrounding areas can appeal through the local Board of Review between April 2 and April 30. The process includes:

• Completing an appeal form (available on your county assessor’s website)
• Submitting supporting documents
• Presenting your case in person or in writing

Step 5: Additional Appeal Options

If the Board of Review denies your request or you’re unhappy with the decision, you have two additional options:

• Appeal to the Property Assessment Appeal Board (PAAB) within 20 days
• File a lawsuit in district court within 20 days

How I Can Help You Appeal Your Assessment

As a real estate agent specializing in the Des Moines metro housing market, I can assist by:

• Providing comparable sales data to support your appeal
• Connecting you with professional appraisers and tax experts
• Helping you navigate the assessment appeal process

If you need help determining whether your home’s assessed value is fair or gathering the right documentation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to ensure you’re not overpaying on property taxes in Johnston, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, or Waukee!