Hopkins & Carley

Hopkins & Carley has served Peninsula property owners for over four decades, with our property tax practice representing clients in assessment appeals and tax reduction matters throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. Our experienced team understands the complexities of California's property tax system and provides strategic representation to help clients minimize their tax burden through legitimate appeal processes. Our long-established presence in the Peninsula legal community gives us valuable insights into local assessment practices, market conditions, and the preferences of various county assessors and appeals boards. We combine this institutional knowledge with current market data and legal expertise to build compelling cases for property tax reduction.

Our property tax practice provides comprehensive services from initial assessment review through final appeal resolution. We begin with detailed analysis of your property's assessed value compared to current market conditions, recent comparable sales, and appropriate valuation methodologies. Our services include preparing and filing assessment appeals, representing clients at county assessment appeals board hearings, and pursuing appeals to the State Board of Equalization when appropriate. We handle Proposition 8 decline-in-value applications for properties experiencing temporary market downturns, assist with new construction and change-of-ownership valuations, and provide ongoing monitoring of assessment changes. For business clients, we review personal property assessments covering furniture, fixtures, equipment, and inventory to ensure accurate valuations. Our team also handles complex valuation issues including environmental contamination, easements, and development restrictions that can significantly impact property values. We maintain relationships with qualified appraisers and valuation experts to support our cases when professional opinions are needed.

Our appeal process begins with a thorough evaluation of your property and its assessment to determine appeal viability and potential savings. We conduct comprehensive market research, analyze assessment methodology, and identify any errors or inappropriate valuation approaches used by county assessors. When we recommend proceeding, we prepare detailed evidence packages including comparable sales analyses, property condition documentation, and expert opinions when necessary. We handle all filing requirements and deadlines, represent you at hearings, and negotiate with county personnel to achieve optimal outcomes. Throughout the process, we provide regular updates and handle all administrative aspects while you focus on your other priorities.

We serve property owners throughout the San Francisco Peninsula, with primary focus on San Mateo County including Redwood City, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, San Mateo, Belmont, Foster City, and surrounding communities. We also handle matters in Santa Clara County for clients with properties in multiple jurisdictions. Our longstanding presence in the Peninsula gives us deep familiarity with local market conditions and assessment practices that benefit our clients.