Devine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax

Fair or Flawed? The Ethics of Property Taxation In Property Tax

Episode Summary:
In this revealing episode, property tax attorney Nora Devine discusses the ethical challenges and reforms in Illinois' property tax system. She shares insights about historical corruption, recent improvements, and the importance of transparency in property tax assessments. The conversation covers campaign contribution limits, gift ban ordinances, and the role of federal prosecutors in combating corruption.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Show Introduction
00:40 - Evolution of property tax assessment practices
02:13 - Discussion of campaign contribution reforms
04:12 - Example of corruption case involving an alderman
05:59 - Transparency and FOIA requests in property tax
06:54 - Legal consequences of gaming the system
09:34 - Conflicts of interest in property tax assessment
13:20 - Need for inspector general reform
15:06 - Ethical best practices in property tax matters
 
About the Show:
Divine Intervention sheds light on Illinois property tax matters with host Kevin Rosenquist and expert guest Nora Devine, who has been practicing property tax law since 2005. The show provides valuable insights into the complex world of property taxation and assessment.

Equalization Factors In Illinois Uncovered: What Property Owners Need to Know

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode, host Abigail Vaca and property tax attorney Nora Devine dive deep into the complex world of equalization factors in Illinois property tax. Nora explains how these factors work differently in Cook County versus other counties, their impact on property owners, and the relationship between equalization factors and school funding. The episode provides valuable insights for property owners about assessment practices, appeals processes, and common misconceptions about property tax calculations.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:40 - Understanding equalization factors outside Cook County
03:19 - How equalization factors are determined
05:20 - Different approaches to equalization by township assessors
07:19 - Fairness in applying equalization factors
09:45 - Legal options for property owners
11:21 - Cook County's unique classification system
14:55 - Common misconceptions about equalization factors
 
About the Show:
Devine Intervention features Nora Devine, a property tax attorney with private practice experience since 2005. She has developed a statewide practice in all jurisdictions in Illinois and represents all property classes. The show aims to shed light on complex property tax matters in Illinois.

How the Pandemic Transformed the Luxury Real Estate Market

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode, host Abigail Vaca and property tax attorney Nora Devine discuss vacancy relief for Illinois property owners. Nora explains what vacancy relief is, who qualifies, common pitfalls, and best practices for property owners seeking this tax break. The episode covers important insights about the application process, documentation requirements, and strategic considerations for property owners dealing with vacant properties.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:33 - What is vacancy relief and its intended purpose
02:39 - Types of properties that qualify for vacancy relief
05:43 - Initial steps for property owners seeking vacancy relief
07:06 - Filing requirements and administrative considerations
08:16 - Common reasons for application denials
09:31 - Misconceptions about vacancy relief
11:16 - Effective strategies for property owners
 
About the Show:
Devine Intervention features Nora Devine, a property tax attorney with extensive experience since 2005, offering expert insights on Illinois property tax matters. The show provides valuable information for property owners, real estate professionals, and anyone interested in understanding Illinois property tax systems and relief programs.

Decoding Illinois Tax Law: Omitted Assessments & Legal Defenses

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode, host Abigail Vaca and property tax attorney Nora Devine dive deep into the complex world of omitted assessments in Illinois property tax law. Nora explains how omitted assessments differ from regular property tax assessments, common scenarios leading to back taxes, and crucial legal defenses available to property owners.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:43 - Explanation of regular property tax assessments vs. omitted assessments
02:50 - Common scenarios leading to omitted assessments
05:52 - Legal defenses available for property owners
07:24 - Historical changes in omitted assessment laws
10:40 - Steps to challenge omitted assessments
12:22 - Property improvements and omitted assessments
13:47 - Important documentation for disputes
15:04 - Proactive steps for property owners
 
About the Show:
Devine Intervention features Nora Devine, a property tax attorney in private practice since 2005. With her statewide practice experience across all Illinois jurisdictions and property classes, Nora provides expert insights into navigating the complex world of Illinois property taxation.

The Property Tax Appeal Playbook: How to Choose the Best Lawyer

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with property tax attorney Nora Devine to break down the Illinois commercial property tax appeal process. With nearly two decades of experience, Nora provides valuable insights on why commercial property owners should appeal, how to collect the right documentation, and what strategies can strengthen an appeal. They discuss the differences between Cook County and other Illinois jurisdictions, vacancy relief, market rents, and key factors considered by the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB).
If you're a commercial property owner in Illinois looking to lower your tax liability, this episode is a must-listen.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Divine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax
00:06 – Introduction to Nora Divine, Illinois property tax attorney
00:34 – Why commercial property owners should always appeal in Cook County
01:05 – The push-pull between residential and commercial tax burdens
01:47 – How property tax assessments differ outside of Cook County
02:26 – Key documentation for a strong property tax appeal
04:44 – Choosing the right comparables (comps) for a property tax appeal
05:50 – The impact of high vacancy rates on tax assessments
06:50 – How to leverage income and expense data for an appeal
07:54 – The process of working with a property tax attorney
09:48 – Are there cases where an appeal is not worth pursuing?
11:53 – Key factors considered by the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB)
13:11 – How to demonstrate an arm’s-length sale in an appeal
15:48 – Closing remarks and how to connect with Nora Divine
About the Show
Devine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax is a podcast dedicated to helping property owners understand and navigate the complexities of Illinois property tax laws. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring expert insights from attorney Nora Devine, the show provides practical guidance on property tax appeals, assessments, and legal strategies to minimize tax liabilities.

How to Lose Your Property Tax Appeal: A Guide to What Not to do

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Divine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with experienced property tax attorney Nora Divine to discuss the ins and outs of appealing property tax assessments in Illinois. They cover what business and commercial real estate owners should consider when hiring a property tax appeal attorney, red flags to watch out for, and the importance of working with a tech-enabled firm. Nora also sheds light on local tax assessment processes, legal due process, and the role of reputation and negotiation leverage in achieving favorable outcomes.
If you're navigating the complexities of Illinois property taxes and looking for expert insights on appeals, fees, and legal representation, this episode is a must-listen!
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome to Divine Intervention
00:06 – Introduction to Nora Divine and her expertise in property tax law
00:37 – Key qualities to look for in a property tax appeal attorney
01:29 – The shift toward tech-enabled tax appeal firms
03:50 – Why local tax assessment experience matters
06:48 – The impact of relationships with assessors and local tax boards
07:56 – Red flags when choosing a tax appeal attorney
10:15 – Key questions to ask during an initial consultation
11:33 – How to verify an attorney’s track record and reputation
12:18 – The role of technology in communication and efficiency
14:34 – Challenges with client communication and expectations
15:14 – How to contact Nora Divine for property tax appeal services
About the Show:
Divine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax is a podcast dedicated to helping property owners navigate the complexities of Illinois’ tax system. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring property tax expert Nora Divine, the show explores key strategies for appealing tax assessments, understanding local regulations, and making informed decisions about legal representation.

How Property Tax Assessments are Determined

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with property tax attorney Nora Devine to break down how property tax assessments are determined. They explore the factors assessors consider, how market conditions and comparable sales impact valuations, and common mistakes in the assessment process. Nora also provides insights on how homeowners and business owners can challenge inaccurate assessments and navigate the complexities of Illinois’ property tax system.
Timestamps
[00:00] – Welcome to Devine Intervention
[00:06] – Introduction to property tax attorney Nora Devine
[00:35] – How property tax assessments are determined
[02:25] – Standard methods vs. local variations in property valuation
[03:45] – How improvements, renovations, and location affect assessments
[06:48] – The impact of neighborhood changes and gentrification
[08:44] – The role of market conditions and comparable sales
[09:51] – Errors and inefficiencies in the assessment process
[12:14] – Common assessment inaccuracies and what to watch for
[13:34] – Special considerations for unique and historic properties
[15:32] – Steps to take if you believe your property assessment is incorrect
[17:41] – Accessing property tax data and navigating the appeals process
[18:04] – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Nora Devine
About the Show
Devine Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax is a podcast dedicated to helping property owners understand and navigate Illinois' complex property tax system. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring property tax attorney Nora Devine, the show provides expert insights on assessments, appeals, and strategies to manage property tax burdens effectively.

Appealing Your Property Taxes: What To Expect During The Process

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Nora Devine, a seasoned Illinois property tax attorney, to discuss the biggest mistakes property owners make when appealing their property tax assessments. From failing to check property records for errors to making legally irrelevant arguments, Nora breaks down what not to do if you want to successfully appeal your property tax assessment. She also shares expert insights on why understanding local assessor dynamics, gathering the right evidence, and avoiding excessive or misleading data are key to winning an appeal.
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Devine Intervention and today’s topic: How to Lose Your Property Tax Appeal00:05 – Meet Nora Devine: Property tax attorney with statewide experience in Illinois00:43 – The #1 rule: First, do no harm – Why checking your property record card is crucial02:23 – Understanding the risks: Could your appeal actually increase your tax bill?03:00 – Why talking to your local assessor first can improve your appeal’s chances06:13 – Common mistakes: Why arguing that your taxes have doubled won’t work06:50 – What makes a legally relevant argument? The key data points you need07:55 – How to compare your property to others the right way08:58 – The role of personal bias in property valuations – Do people overestimate or underestimate their property’s value?10:50 – How property tax assessments differ inside and outside of Cook County11:16 – Is too much data a bad thing? When to include or exclude information in your appeal14:51 – When should you contact a property tax attorney?15:24 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Nora Devine
About the Show
Devine Intervention is a podcast dedicated to shedding light on Illinois property tax, helping property owners navigate the complex appeals process, and providing expert insights from Nora Devine, a top property tax attorney. Whether you're a homeowner or a commercial property owner, this podcast provides the knowledge you need to make informed tax decisions.
 

The Impact of Market Trends on Your Property Tax Assessment

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist is joined by property tax attorney Nora Devine to explore how market trends affect property tax assessments in Illinois. They discuss past real estate cycles, including the 2006-2008 housing crash and the pandemic-driven market boom, and how these fluctuations influence assessments for homeowners and commercial property owners alike. The conversation also covers industrial and office real estate trends, assessment challenges, and the process for appealing unfair property tax evaluations.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Devine Intervention with host Kevin Rosenquist and guest Nora Devine00:05 – Introduction to Nora Devine, her background, and today’s topic: market trends and property tax assessments00:30 – The impact of past real estate cycles on property assessments02:00 – The 2006-2008 housing crash and its effect on property tax valuations03:45 – How pandemic-era low-interest rates and limited inventory drove prices up06:20 – The challenge of overvalued properties and how they affect assessments07:50 – Office real estate struggles post-pandemic and shifting demand in Chicago’s Loop09:53 – The impact of industrial growth on property values in Illinois11:19 – What homeowners can do if their assessment is unfair14:55 – How often property assessments are updated in Illinois and why the system lags behind market trends16:23 – The importance of timing when buying property and its effect on future tax assessments
About the Show
Devine Intervention is a podcast dedicated to shedding light on Illinois property tax issues. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring expert insights from property tax attorney Nora Devine, each episode explores key topics to help homeowners and business owners navigate the complex world of property taxation.
 

Unlocking Illinois Property Tax Exemptions: What You Need to Know

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine's Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Nora Devine, a property tax attorney with nearly two decades of experience, to discuss Illinois property tax exemptions. They break down the different exemptions available, common misconceptions, and the best steps homeowners can take to ensure they’re getting the tax relief they deserve.
From understanding homeowners exemptions to navigating senior freezes and avoiding unnecessary fees, this episode is packed with valuable insights for Illinois property owners. Nora also shares real-life examples and practical tips for applying for exemptions, dealing with assessor’s offices, and ensuring a smooth process.
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Devine's Intervention and today’s topic
00:32 – Common property tax exemptions in Illinois and who qualifies
02:20 – Misconceptions about tax exemptions and how tenants may qualify
04:28 – The ease of applying for exemptions and avoiding scams
05:08 – Uniformity issues in property tax exemption administration
05:55 – What is the home improvement exemption, and how does it work?
06:02 – Difference between tax exemptions and tax reductions
08:09 – The impact of exemptions and reductions on overall property taxes
09:35 – How Illinois homeowners can apply for exemptions
11:08 – Key steps to prepare before applying for exemptions
12:30 – What to do if you believe you qualify but didn’t receive an exemption
14:15 – How new homeowners can ensure they apply for the right exemptions from the start
16:19 – Closing remarks and key takeaways
About the Show
Devine's Intervention: Shedding Light on Illinois Property Tax is a podcast dedicated to helping homeowners and property owners navigate the complex world of Illinois property taxes. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring property tax expert Nora Devine's, each episode tackles important topics such as property assessments, exemptions, and appeals to ensure taxpayers are informed and empowered.