Property Appraisal Department

Purpose of Appraisals:

The purpose of the appraisal is to estimate the fair market value of the real estate for administering ad valorem tax fairly and equitably.  The effective date of appraisal by statue is October 1st of each calendar year.

All property appraisals are made in accordance with the requirements and standards of the State Department of Revenue and under its supervision using the guidelines and procedures of the Alabama Appraisal Manual. Each parcel of land must be described on a property record card.  Characteristics about land and buildings are listed and the value.  This information is found in the  Revenue Commissioners Office.

Real Property:

Real property is defined by statue and is synonymous with REAL ESTATE. Real property is the physical land and appendages attached to the land, i.e. structures. (residential and commercial)

The assessment process plays an important role in local government.  Equitable assessments assure property owners that they are asked to pay only their fair share of the cost of operating libraries, schools, police protection and other necessary governmental services.

Alabama Statues require the County Revenue Commission to maintain all real estate values.  County Appraisers visit properties when assessed to measure and inventory construction components.  County appraisers also review for changes based on an application of a building permit, recent sales, taxpayer  request, ect.

Definition of Market Value:
Is defined as the most probable price, expressed in terms of money, that a  property would bring in a competitive and open market under all conditions  requisite to a fair sale, the buyer and seller each acting prudently and  knowledgeably, and assuming the price is not affect by undue stimulus.

Analysis of Market Value:
Once market values have been calculated based on information gathered by the property appraiser, the values are analyzed to determine how accurate and equitable they are.  The property appraiser does not create market value.  The buying and selling of property by the general public establishes the value of  property in the real estate marketplace.

A comparison of assessments to sales prices is performed to determine ratios, which are then used to measure the levels and uniformity of assessments. Sales ratio studies by neighborhood, type of property and other characteristics are performed on a regular basis to assure uniformity in values.

Notice of Valuation:

The Revenue Commissioner is required by law to notify the property owner of value changes of their property.  If there is a change, the property owner will receive a notice from the Board Of Equalization Valuation.

Appealing the Market Value:
Once you have received your "Valuation Notice" you have thirty (30) days form the date of mailing to contact the Randolph County Board of Equalization (example form letter here).  If you are not satisfied with the value of your property you may apply to be heard by the BOARD OF EQUALIZATION.  The Board of Equalization will schedule a hearing date to come and present your argument. If you are not satisfied you have the legal right to appeal to Circuit Court within 30 days after final notification from the Board of Equalization.