Alec Harrington - Thompson Welch Soroko & Gilbert LLP

Property Tax Consultant in San Francisco, California

5(2 reviews)
(415) 781-4000450 Pacific Ave, Ste 200, San Francisco, CA 94133View on Yelp
Alec Harrington - Thompson Welch Soroko & Gilbert LLP - property tax consultant in San Francisco, CA

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About Alec Harrington - Thompson Welch Soroko & Gilbert LLP

Alec Harrington brings over 15 years of property tax expertise to Thompson Welch Soroko & Gilbert LLP, specializing in complex commercial and residential assessment appeals throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. His background in both tax law and real estate valuation provides clients with a unique perspective on navigating California's intricate property tax system. Harrington's approach combines thorough market analysis with aggressive advocacy, consistently achieving significant tax reductions for property owners. He's handled appeals ranging from single-family homes to multi-million dollar commercial developments, earning recognition for his detailed preparation and successful track record in challenging overassessed properties.

Services

Wills, Trusts, & Probates
Business Law
Tax Law

How They Can Help

Our property tax services encompass comprehensive assessment reviews, formal appeals preparation, and ongoing tax planning strategies. We conduct detailed property valuations using multiple approaches including comparable sales analysis, income capitalization, and cost methodology to build compelling cases for tax reduction. Our team handles all aspects of the appeals process, from initial assessment review through Board of Equalization hearings if necessary. We also provide preventive services, monitoring annual assessments and identifying opportunities for tax savings before they become major issues. For commercial properties, we offer specialized services including business personal property appeals, fixture classifications, and partial exemption applications. Additionally, we assist with Proposition 8 decline-in-value claims, new construction assessments, and change-in-ownership reviews. Our goal is to ensure clients pay only their fair share while maximizing available tax benefits and exemptions under California law.

What to Expect

Our proven process begins with a comprehensive property assessment review, analyzing your current tax bill against market conditions and comparable properties. We conduct detailed research including property inspections, market analysis, and legal research to identify grounds for appeal. Once we determine viable savings opportunities, we prepare and file formal appeals with supporting documentation including professional appraisals when necessary. Throughout the process, we maintain regular communication, providing updates on case progress and potential outcomes. If informal negotiations don't yield satisfactory results, we're prepared to represent you at formal hearings, presenting compelling evidence to achieve maximum tax reductions.

Service Area

We serve the entire San Francisco Bay Area including San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma counties. Our local expertise extends to understanding county-specific assessment practices, hearing procedures, and assessor office policies. This regional knowledge allows us to tailor strategies effectively for each jurisdiction's unique characteristics and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of property tax appeals are successful?
Our success rate exceeds 85% in achieving some level of tax reduction. However, the amount of reduction varies significantly based on property type, market conditions, and specific assessment issues.
How long does the appeals process typically take?
Informal reviews usually take 2-4 months, while formal appeals can extend 6-12 months or longer. The timeline depends on case complexity and hearing schedules in your county.
Can I appeal my property taxes every year?
Yes, you have the right to appeal your assessment annually if you believe it's incorrect. However, successful appeals require valid grounds such as market decline, property damage, or assessment errors.
What evidence is needed for a successful appeal?
Strong appeals typically include comparable sales data, professional appraisals, property condition documentation, and market analysis. The specific evidence depends on your property type and appeal grounds.
Will appealing my taxes trigger an audit or increase scrutiny?
No, filing an appeal is a legal right and won't trigger additional scrutiny. Assessor offices handle thousands of appeals annually as part of their normal process.
How much can I expect to save on a successful appeal?
Savings vary widely but typically range from 10-40% of the disputed amount. Factors include property type, market conditions, and the extent of over-assessment.
What happens if my appeal is unsuccessful?
Unsuccessful appeals can sometimes be pursued to higher levels like the State Board of Equalization. We'll discuss all available options if initial appeals don't succeed.
Are your fees tax-deductible?
Generally yes, property tax appeal fees are deductible as tax preparation expenses. However, you should consult your tax advisor for specific guidance on your situation.

Think Your Property Is Over-Assessed?

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