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.