If the standardized property tax value deviates significantly from the actual market value – in practice usually by more than 40 percent – a lower value can be proven by means of an appraisal report.
Proof is provided by a market value appraisal prepared by a qualified valuer or the competent expert committee (Gutachterausschuss) as of the relevant valuation date.
Since property tax represents an ongoing, annual burden, the cost of an appraisal report can, in cases of significant deviation, prove financially worthwhile over the years.
The possibility of proving a lower fair market value for property tax purposes stems from a decision by the Federal Constitutional Court, which declared a corresponding opening clause necessary.
The value at the respective main assessment date always remains decisive – a subsequent decrease or increase in market value only takes effect at the next update or main assessment.
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