Biddle Law

Biddle Law has been serving San Mateo County property owners for over two decades, specializing in comprehensive tax law services including property tax appeals and assessment challenges. Our firm understands that property taxes represent one of the largest expenses for homeowners and commercial property investors, which is why we're committed to ensuring you're paying only what you legally owe. Our experienced team combines deep knowledge of California property tax law with local expertise in San Mateo County assessment practices. We've successfully reduced property tax burdens for hundreds of clients, from single-family homeowners to large commercial developers. Our approach focuses on thorough analysis, strategic planning, and aggressive advocacy to protect your financial interests.

Our property tax services encompass every aspect of assessment appeals and tax reduction strategies. We handle formal appeals before county assessment boards, providing comprehensive documentation and expert testimony to challenge overvaluations. Our assessment review services include detailed property analysis, comparable sales research, and market condition evaluations to identify potential savings opportunities. We also provide proactive tax planning consultation, helping clients understand assessment methodologies and timing strategies for maximum benefit. For commercial properties, we offer specialized services including business personal property appeals, Proposition 8 decline-in-value claims, and supplemental assessment challenges. Our valuation dispute resolution extends to working with appraisers and assessors to reach fair settlements outside formal hearing processes. Additionally, we assist with transfer tax issues, change of ownership questions, and exemption applications for qualifying properties.

Our property tax appeal process begins with a comprehensive assessment review, where we analyze your current tax bill, recent sales data, and property characteristics. We then conduct market research to determine if your assessment exceeds fair market value by a significant margin that justifies an appeal. If we identify potential savings, we file the necessary paperwork with the county assessor's office and begin building your case. This includes gathering comparable sales data, arranging property inspections if needed, and preparing documentation that highlights factors supporting a lower valuation. We handle all communication with county officials and represent you at hearings, presenting evidence and expert testimony to support your position.

We serve all of San Mateo County, including San Mateo, Redwood City, Daly City, San Carlos, Belmont, Foster City, and surrounding communities. Our deep familiarity with local assessor practices and county hearing procedures gives our clients a significant advantage in appeal proceedings. We also handle select cases in adjacent Santa Clara and San Francisco counties for existing clients.