Every year, the township assessor determines the assessed value of your property. If you believe your assessment is too high — meaning it does not reflect what your property would actually sell for — you have the right to appeal.
Steps to Appeal
- Review your assessment notice. You will receive it in February. It shows your property's assessed value (which should be roughly 50% of market value) and taxable value. Make sure the property details (acreage, square footage, number of bedrooms) are correct.
- Talk to the assessor first. Call Casey Guthrie at (231) 350-9123 before the Board of Review meets. Sometimes errors in property data can be corrected without a formal appeal. Casey can explain how your value was calculated.
- Gather your evidence. Strong appeals include:
- Recent sale prices of comparable properties nearby
- A recent appraisal of your property
- Photos showing condition issues that affect value
- Documentation of damage, flooding, or other problems
- Attend the March Board of Review. The Board of Review meets in March (exact dates are posted at the township office and on the website). You can appear in person or submit a written appeal by letter. Bring copies of all your evidence.
- Present your case clearly. Explain why you believe the assessed value exceeds 50% of your property's true market value. Stick to facts and comparable sales — emotion will not move the board.
- Receive the decision. The Board of Review will notify you of their decision in writing.
If You Disagree with the Board of Review
You can appeal further to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. For residential property valued under $100,000, use the Small Claims Division (simpler, no lawyer needed). The filing deadline is July 31 of the tax year. Visit michigan.gov/taxtrib for forms and instructions.
Key Details
- The Board of Review cannot raise your assessment based on your appeal. You will not be penalized for showing up.
- You must appeal to the Board of Review first before going to the Michigan Tax Tribunal.
- Deadline matters. If you miss the March Board of Review, your next chance is the following year (with limited exceptions for July and December sessions).