I tried calling the assessor's office. No one answered, surprisingly. I don't know if they'd be able to answer my question anyway.

My wife and I purchased this home in 10/2013. We paid right at the estimated value (both the real estate comp and assessor's value were within 5%). This was definitely the worst house in the neighborhood. It hadn't been maintained the previous 20 years and was a disaster inside and out. However, the bones of the house were good. It was definitely a project but we got a good price relative to what comparable homes that were moderately updated were going for per sq ft.

Fast forward. I completed a few renovation projects but still have a LONG way to go. I was out of town for 5 months for work. Last minute thing, 2 week heads up. I had basically started the demolition on multiple projects and then left while in the middle of them. While away my wife decided she wanted a divorce and moved out. It's complicated, but right now I don't have the ability to finish the renovations. The money is there, but the ability to spend it is not. The house and property are CLEANER but the house itself is actually in worse shape than it was when we purchased it because the renovation stopped half way. Basically, a lot of stuff has been demoed but not replaced. For example, the is NO flooring on both levels, only the upper level has interior doors, much of the basement renovation is stuck at the drywall phase and has only been taped (no texture or paint), no closet doors, etc.

I just got the 2015 assessed value and the assessor has increased it's tax value 30% over the last 2 years. I realize a % of that is probably the residential lot and isn't affected by the condition of the home.

Although we've made many improvements, in it's current state I highly doubt it would sell for much more than we purchased it for. Definitely not 30% more.

I would think this would be a good candidate for an appeal. In reading the appeal forms they make it sound like I need to have a market analysis done by a real estate agent? I honestly don't think that's necessary. I would think I could do a simple search of comparable homes that have sold in the area, include a quick write-up with photos of it's current condition.

Anyone have any advice or input?