Frequently Asked Questions

How long have you been in business?

FTPS was founded in 1994 and has represented taxpayers throughout Texas since that time. We are an established company that has earned a reputation with our clients and the appraisal districts as being honest and professional.

Is your staff experienced?

Our staff includes personnel who previously worked for appraisal districts, senior licensed property tax consultants, and licensed real estate brokers/agents. We know the property tax system and the real estate market.

Why should I have my proposed property tax assessment appealed?

It just makes good business sense to control and minimize the amount of property taxes you pay each year. Texas does not have a state income tax so property tax is a substantial source of tax revenue in the state.

How do I know for sure that my proposed tax value was reduced?

At the end of the hearing the appraisal district and/or appraisal review board provides us with an official document reflecting the original value and any reduced value. This document is provided to you along with a tax savings report.

What is an appraisal cap?

This applies to residential homestead properties only. The appraisal district can increase the market value of a property by any amount, however, the amount that you pay tax on can’t increase by more that 10% in a given year. The taxable will increase by 10% each year until it reaches the market value. If this applies to your property both the cap value and the market value will appear on your notice of appraised value.

What if there is a substantial difference in my market value and cap value?

If we obtain a reduction below the proposed market value, our regular contingency fee applies. If we reduce a proposed market value to a figure that is still above the cap value, we charge $3.50 for every $1,000 in value reduction. For example, a reduction of $10,000 would only be a fee of $35 in cases where you have a cap value less than the final market value.

What information do you need from me?

Just let us know if your property is affected by any factors or needs major repairs such as a slab problem, needs new roof, etc. Send a written estimate for repair from a contractor if possible and/or pictures of the problem with a supporting statement. All documentation that you provide will be presented by us at the hearing.

What types of properties do you represent?

We represent all types of real estate from large complex commercial and industrial accounts to residential properties.

Do I need to attend the hearing?

No. That is what you pay us for. We will appear on your behalf.

Is my information confidential?

Yes. Any information given to us will be kept in your file and viewed only by our consultants. The only information that will be provided to the district is that which is necessary to minimize your tax liability.

What if I do not have a homestead exemption?

If this is your primary residence, we can send you the required application form.

If the proposed market value is not reduced on my account do I owe you anything?

Absolutely not. If there is no reduction, there is no fee of any kind for the service

When would my hearing be held?

Tax appeal hearings begin around May 1st and run throughout the summer months. Once your hearing is finalized, the results will be reported to you.

How would I be contacted?

If we have your email address, the report would be sent via email in most cases. If not, the reports are mailed to you.

How do I know I am dealing with a reputable company?

Established in 1994, our company is a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Our agents hold property tax consultant licenses with the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulations and we hold an active Real Estate Broker’s license with the State of Texas Real Estate Commission. We are also members of the Texas Association of Property Tax Professionals. We have developed a reputation with the appraisal districts as being well prepared and professional.