J David Tax

J David Tax has been providing personalized property tax consulting services to San Francisco area property owners since 2008. Founded by David Johnson, a former county assessor with over 15 years of government experience, we bring insider knowledge of how assessments are actually conducted and where errors commonly occur. Our boutique practice focuses exclusively on property tax matters, allowing us to stay current with the latest assessment practices and maintain strong working relationships with local assessors' offices. We pride ourselves on providing the attention and expertise typically reserved for larger properties to homeowners and small business owners throughout the Bay Area.

Our property tax services are built around thorough, methodical assessment analysis using the same techniques employed by county assessors. We examine your property's assessment history, recent sales activity in your neighborhood, and physical characteristics that might affect valuation. When we identify assessment errors or over-valuations, we prepare detailed evidence packages including comparable sales analysis, property condition reports, and market data. We handle all communication with assessors' offices and represent clients at assessment appeals board hearings when necessary. Our approach emphasizes negotiation and collaboration rather than confrontation, which often leads to faster resolutions and better working relationships for future cases. We also provide annual assessment monitoring services and proactive advice on property improvements that might trigger reassessment under California law.

We begin every case with a comprehensive property evaluation, reviewing assessment records, recent sales data, and physical property characteristics. During our initial consultation, we'll explain exactly how your property was assessed and identify any potential issues. If we find grounds for appeal, we'll provide a written analysis outlining expected outcomes and our recommended strategy. Once engaged, we handle all paperwork, deadlines, and communications with the assessor's office. Most cases are resolved through informal negotiations, but we're fully prepared for formal hearings when necessary. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed with regular updates and plain-English explanations of any developments.

We serve property owners throughout San Francisco, San Mateo County, and northern Santa Clara County. Our deep knowledge of local assessment practices and market conditions in these areas allows us to provide more accurate advice and better results than consultants who work across broader geographic areas.