Segal, Cohen & Landis

Property Tax Consultant in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

(717) 936-6755, Philadelphia, PA 19140View on Yelp
Segal, Cohen & Landis - property tax consultant in Philadelphia, PA

About Segal, Cohen & Landis

Segal, Cohen & Landis has been representing property owners in tax appeals and assessment disputes throughout Pennsylvania for over three decades. Our experienced team understands that property taxes represent a significant financial burden, and we're dedicated to ensuring our clients pay only their fair share. We've built our reputation on thorough preparation, aggressive advocacy, and consistent results. Our firm combines extensive legal experience with practical knowledge of real estate markets and assessment practices. We handle cases ranging from modest residential appeals to complex commercial property disputes involving millions of dollars in potential savings. Our long-standing relationships with local assessment offices, appraisers, and real estate professionals enable us to build strong cases and negotiate favorable settlements for our clients.

Services

Tax Law

How They Can Help

We offer comprehensive property tax services including residential and commercial assessment appeals, tax exemption applications, and ongoing assessment monitoring. Our residential practice covers all property types from single-family homes to large apartment complexes. We analyze market data, assessment methodologies, and property-specific factors to identify over-assessments and build compelling cases for reductions. For commercial clients, we handle sophisticated appeals involving complex valuation issues, income approach analysis, and specialized property types including medical facilities, manufacturing plants, and retail centers. We coordinate with certified appraisers, engineers, and market analysts to provide comprehensive evidence supporting our clients' positions. We also assist with tax abatement applications, appeals of special assessments, and compliance with ongoing assessment requirements.

What to Expect

Every case begins with a detailed analysis of your property's assessment history, current market conditions, and specific property characteristics. We provide honest assessments of appeal prospects and potential outcomes during initial consultations. Once engaged, we handle all aspects of the appeals process, from initial filings through final resolution. We conduct thorough investigations including property inspections, market research, and coordination with expert witnesses when necessary. Our team prepares comprehensive appeal packages with supporting documentation, represents clients at hearings, and negotiates settlements when appropriate. We keep clients informed throughout the process and provide clear explanations of procedural requirements and strategic decisions.

Service Area

We serve clients throughout Pennsylvania with particular strength in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, Lancaster County, and York County. Our attorneys are admitted to practice before assessment boards and courts statewide. We're familiar with the varying procedures, deadlines, and practices of different counties, which allows us to provide effective representation regardless of property location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pennsylvania property tax appeals differ from other states?
Pennsylvania has county-specific procedures and deadlines that vary significantly across the state. Some counties have formal hearing processes while others rely more on informal negotiations. Appeal deadlines also vary by county, making local knowledge essential.
What role do comparable sales play in Pennsylvania appeals?
Comparable sales are crucial evidence in most appeals, but they must be truly comparable in size, age, condition, and location. Recent sales within the same township or assessment district typically carry the most weight with appeal boards.
Can I appeal both the land and building assessments separately?
In Pennsylvania, land and building assessments are typically appealed together as the total property assessment. However, arguments can focus on specific components if there are particular valuation issues with land or improvements.
What happens to my assessment if I win an appeal?
Successful appeals result in reduced assessments that typically remain in effect until the next county-wide reassessment. The reduction applies to the current tax year and continues forward, providing ongoing savings.
Are there different appeal procedures for different property values?
Some counties have different procedures or thresholds for high-value properties or commercial appeals. These may involve additional documentation requirements or different hearing procedures than standard residential appeals.
How do recent property improvements affect my appeal chances?
Recent improvements can complicate appeals since they may justify higher assessments. However, if the assessed increase exceeds the actual added value of improvements, you may still have grounds for appeal.
Can environmental issues affect my property assessment appeal?
Yes, environmental contamination, flood zones, wetlands restrictions, or other environmental factors that limit property use or value can be important factors in assessment appeals.
What documentation should I maintain for future appeals?
Keep records of property maintenance, repairs, market conditions, and any factors that might affect value. Photos documenting property condition and copies of comparable sales data can be valuable for future appeals.

Think Your Property Is Over-Assessed?

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