Tax Appeal Parties

Maybe it's a question of going with the flow. Or maybe it's a question of seizing an opportunity to be visible in a positive way.

Or maybe it's just a good old-fashioned idea to help your neighbors when they need it most.

Whatever it is, Ken Baris says, "I came up with the idea to create Tax Appeal Parties· and they are a great way to help people, build goodwill, generate referrals and keep your name in front of potential clients by building tremendous mindshare.

"All across the country property values have dropped," says Baris. "This is an opportunity for people to appeal their property taxes and save money, if they know how to do it.

"This is especially important now as so many people need a financial break. Baris says sales associates are in a particularly good position to help others understand how taxes are assessed and what current values are. With a little training, they also can help their neighbors win tax appeal cases.

For instance, in New Jersey where he lives, property taxes can be appealed whenever the fair market value assessment is more than 15 percent over true value.

There are 81 homes in my neighborhood, and I realized every one could have significant savings, he said. So he emailed and sent letters to everyone inviting them to a wine, cheese and tax assessment party at his house. People were told that everything they would need would be at the party including their tax assessments, comparable sales, forms and instructions.

We had owners from 35 homes attend. We set up a laptop computer and a 24·inch monitor and we went over what it takes to win a tax appeal. And I pointed out how lower taxes could raise our property values. I helped people fill out the appeals forms.

The party was a great success.

"It gave everyone a chance to meet everyone else. But l also ended up meeting with more neighbors the next week. In the end, we helped about 50 neighbors with appeals - with no cost or obligation to them." And the feedback was tremendous.

"The day after the party, we took a listing as a direct result of the party and two more people say they will be listing with us soon. I had not met two of the three before - and would not have been thought of for the listings if it hadn't been for the party. I've also received referrals."

Baris took the idea to his office and a sates associate, who lives in a condo building, decided to try it.

"There are 415 people living in his complex. He contacted them all, and got a huge response for meetings. He is going to take listings as a direct result as well.