John L. Onesto, Attorney/CPA

John L. Onesto brings a unique dual perspective as both an attorney and CPA to property tax matters in Columbus. This combination of legal expertise and accounting knowledge provides clients with comprehensive understanding of both the technical valuation issues and legal procedures involved in property tax appeals. With decades of experience in tax law, real estate, and estate planning, our practice offers sophisticated analysis of complex property tax situations. We particularly excel in cases involving commercial properties, estate settlements where property taxes are a concern, and situations where tax and legal issues intersect. This broad expertise allows us to identify opportunities and strategies that others might miss.

Our property tax services encompass both residential and commercial assessment appeals, with particular strength in complex valuation scenarios. For residential properties, we handle standard appeals as well as unique situations involving estate properties, divorce settlements, and properties with special characteristics affecting value. Commercial property appeals represent a significant focus, especially properties requiring sophisticated valuation approaches. Our CPA background enables us to analyze income and expense data critically, identify valuation errors, and present compelling financial arguments to assessment boards. We also provide comprehensive property tax planning services, helping clients understand the tax implications of property transactions, improvements, and ownership changes. This includes advice on timing of improvements to minimize tax impact, structuring property ownership for tax efficiency, and coordinating property tax strategies with overall estate and financial planning.

Our process begins with a comprehensive analysis combining legal review of your assessment and procedures with detailed financial and market analysis. We examine your property's income and expense history, market position, and any special factors affecting value. We prepare thorough documentation packages that present both legal arguments and financial analysis supporting your position. Our dual credentials often provide credibility with assessment boards who appreciate detailed financial presentations backed by professional expertise. Throughout the process, we coordinate with other professionals as needed, including appraisers, market analysts, and other specialists. We represent you at all hearings and handle communications with assessment authorities, keeping you informed of developments and strategic decisions.

We serve Columbus and Franklin County primarily, with extensive knowledge of local assessment practices and procedures. Our familiarity with county assessment staff and board members, built over many years of practice, helps us navigate the system effectively. For significant commercial cases or matters involving complex legal issues, we extend our services throughout Central Ohio and occasionally to other parts of the state where our specialized expertise provides particular value to clients.