A clearer path to your Polk County property tax appeal

Build your case

Show what your home was worth on January 1

A higher bill alone does not establish an incorrect assessment. Focus on the property's value as of January 1 of the assessment year. Start with these records, then explain how each supports your requested value.

1. Step 1

   Check the property record

   Save the assessor record and notice. Compare the listed size, age, features, and condition with your home. Document any factual errors.

2. Step 2

   Compare actual sales

   Gather sales of similar homes, your own recent purchase documents, or an appraisal. Explain differences in location, size, condition, and features instead of relying on price alone.

3. Step 3

   Document condition

   Use dated photos and inspection reports to explain problems a street view would miss. Tie the evidence to the home's condition on the assessment date.

For a Des Moines home, explain why each sale reflects the same local market. A similar floor area alone does not make a newer suburban home a good comparison for an older city home. Check the parcel's county before using this guide for a metro-area address.