Officials with the city of Buffalo are encouraging property owners to take advantage of an ongoing appeals process. It allows owners to appeal their 2025 preliminary assessment values. These sessions are by appointment only and run until Nov. 1.
Anyone who doesn't agree with the determination can apply for an additional assessment relief through the Board of Assessment Review. The board receives grievances during the city’s grievance period, which runs from Dec. 1 – Dec. 31.
“These sessions are an opportunity to learn about how your assessment value was determined and for property owners to provide any feedback or evidence that could support a more accurate assessment,” said Commissioner Jason Shell.
The city says informal reviews are free for property owners, who are encouraged to provide information to support their request for reduction including, but not limited to:
- Notes and pictures of any factors that might affect your property’s value (e.g. damage, needed repairs, dated kitchens and bathrooms, etc.)
- Provide a copy of a recent purchase offer or another verification of sale
- Provide a copy of a recent appraisal, if recently mortgaged or refinanced
- Identify comparable sales of similar properties within your tax neighborhood by visiting the city’s property information website, entering your address, and clicking the find comparables button
“To ensure the availability of appointments, property owners should schedule an informal review meeting with the city’s reassessment contractor, KLW Municipal, Inc., as soon as possible by calling (716) 827-1643, Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. to discuss your value in further detail,” said Commissioner Shell.
